Catholic school league defends canceling playoffs

Catholic school league defends canceling playoffs | Chicago Tribune

Local league lays down the law after parents cross the line by confronting officials.

Coaching Clinics Today

Had a great opportunity today to enjoy three clinics from three very different coaches. The one obvious attribute they all share, however, is that each has been incredibly successful.

First, I attended a session hosted by Nancy Pedersen detailing administrative responsibilities of coaches. Nancy is the recently-retired volleyball coaching legend at perennial powerhouse Mother McAuley High School in Chicago. While no one point presented was a particular revelation, it was easy to identify that some of the keys to Coach Pedersen’s success are thorough planning, meticulous attention to every program detail, and plenty of hard work.

I then enjoyed a session presented by DePaul University and Chicago Bandits softball coach Eugene Lenti. Coach Lenti spoke eloquently on “motivating your athletes.” His commitment to understanding his athletes’ places in life and psychological needs and motivations is outstanding.

Finally, I attended a session presented by St. Xavier University women’s basketball coach Bob Hallberg. Coach Hallberg focused his attention on creating very direct lines of communication between coaches, athletes, parents, and administrators. He stressed the importance of dealing with potentional problems immediately and with candor.

While each of these three coaches offered valuable and immediately useful insights, what was most instructive was seeing that each was successful using very different voices and means. It was a great reminder that each of us is challenged to find his or her own coaching style and voice.

Thanks to all three coaches for a great day!

Dual-Coach Families

Finding the time not easy for dual-coach families – Special – Pioneer Press – Suburban Chicago

This one is near to my heart as my wife and I are both high school varsity coaches, work full-time, and have a 7 year-old son (who is also involved in sports and activities of his own!) While there are definitely days that we feel more like a “duel-coach family,” it’s great to get to be around a fantastic coach all the time. Since my wife is by far the stronger coach, I’m pretty sure I get most of the benefit from the situation!