How to Transition from Head Coach to Coordinator w/ Coach Jeff Smothers
Channel: Board Drill Podcast
Date: 27/03/2024

Summary

In this episode, Coach Jeff Smothers discusses the transition from being a head coach to a coordinator. He emphasizes the importance of being present and fully committed to the current role, rather than constantly seeking the next opportunity. Coach Smothers also highlights the value of having a supportive coaching staff and being part of a community that cares about the team. He encourages coaches to communicate openly with their head coaches about their career aspirations and to focus on the love of the game and personal growth. In this conversation, Coach Jeff Smothers discusses the challenges and transitions that come with being an assistant coach. He emphasizes the importance of knowing your role, being loyal to the head coach, and embracing the process. Coach Smothers also highlights the significance of leading your group, building relationships with coaches and players, and being prepared. He encourages assistant coaches to ask questions, challenge ideas respectfully, and take criticism as opportunities for growth. Ultimately, he emphasizes the importance of doing your job and putting the team's success above personal ego.

Takeaways

-Be fully present and committed to your current role as a coach.
-The title of head coach does not define a good coach; focus on being the best in your current position.
-Surround yourself with a supportive coaching staff and community.
-Communicate openly with your head coach about your career aspirations and be transparent about job opportunities. Know your role and be loyal to the head coach.
-Embrace the process and enjoy the journey.
-Lead your group and build relationships with coaches and players.
-Be prepared, ask questions, and take criticism as opportunities for growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Transitioning from Head Coach to Coordinator
03:06 The Importance of Being Where Your Feet Are
06:34 The Value of Being in the Best Situation
10:39 The Importance of Having a Great Coaching Staff
13:32 The Benefits of Being in a Supportive Community
21:23 The Rewards of Being in a Supportive Environment
23:14 The Importance of Transparency and Communication
27:33 Discovering Personal Coaching Preferences
29:05 Transitioning from Head Coach to Assistant Coach
30:10 Settling into the Assistant Coach Role
31:29 Learning and Adapting to New Defensive Strategies
32:29 Offensive Coaches Transitioning to Defense
33:58 Taking a Step Back and Learning as an Assistant Coach
36:06 Dealing with Disagreements as an Assistant Coach
38:00 The Leadership Umbrella and Knowing Your Role
39:36 Leading Your Group as an Assistant Coach
40:47 Being Prepared and Taking Criticism as an Assistant Coach
45:00 Building Relationships with Coaches and Players
46:00 Asking Questions and Challenging Ideas in Staff Meetings
48:05 Embracing the Process and Enjoying the Journey
49:33 Taking Criticism and Doing Your Job