SPECIAL ISSUE Education & Professional Development Edition

ACROSS THE CODES: An Insight into Five Football High Performance Coaching Programs LEADING EDGE EDUCATION A MESSAGE FROM Flipping the Classroom The Editors Using technology to improve the classroom experience Often it is new, state of the art, multi- Sport is played by people, coached by Bill Gates described it as “the future of For educators, the flipped classroom is an million dollar facilities or the latest people and managed by people, so it is education”, and Flipping the Classroom is end to reciting identical lectures. Instead technology in equipment that grabs imperative to get the ‘people side’ right certainly revolutionizing the delivery of the majority of their time is being spent people’s attention in sport. Yet, when to achieve and sustain success. education. With the consensus of leading extending the knowledge of the subject, we look at when teams achieve research concluding that traditional lecture putting theory into practice and having extraordinary results, or the sporting As management and leadership expert formats are decreasing in effectiveness, more interesting engagements with organizations that continue to stay Stephen Covey said “In my 35-year premiere educational institutions are students. ahead of the rest, it’s rarely due to corporate journey and my 60-year life experimenting with, and adopting, the their hardware, nor do they give credit journey, I have consistently found that flipped classroom arrangement. Jac de Haan, founder of Technology to their bricks and mortar! What they the thorniest problems I face each day with Intention, says “The focus of flipped Flipping the classroom was popularized teaching is that the technology itself is attribute as central to their success, is are soft stuff - problems of intention, by Salman Khan, during his 2011 TED simply a tool for flexible communication leadership, how their team ‘just works’, understanding, communication, and Talks presentation. Essentially a reversal that allows educators to differentiate the high standards of behavior they interpersonal effectiveness - not hard of traditional teaching, students review instruction to meet individual student demand, and their persistent drive. stuff such as return on investment and videos, literature and other course needs and spend more time in the other quantitative challenges.” We aim materials before class to learn the theory of classroom focused on collaboration and While it’s nice to have new buildings to provide you with the best resources the subject. Then, the time during class is higher-order thinking.” and equipment, is this the investment for getting this important ‘soft stuff’ used to advance and apply this knowledge that will deliver the best return to right. through experiential exercises, debates, Applying this concept to your own your sporting success? In this edition and interaction with their instructor and program need not be a daunting task. You peers. can start by flipping a single topic and see of People+Sport, we’ve focused on Here’s to your success, the benefits for yourself. The important what the leaders in education and Salman Khan says, “By letting students thing is for students to actively engage in development are doing. From ‘real Kate Roskvist & Liz Hanson have a self-paced lecture at home, then the content of your course. people’ to university case studies, to Education Specialist Client Director when you go to the classroom, letting our feature article on high performance them do work, having the teacher walk coach development, we trust you find around, having the peers actually be able value and useful insights. to interact with each other, these teachers have used technology to humanize the classroom.” We were recently asked why our magazine is called Programs that have flipped the classroom People+Sport and not the other see substantial benefits including increased test scores and learning Contact Athlete Assessments for case studies on way round. The answer is gains, greater student engagement, and how to flip your classroom. simple and reason deliberate, improved graduate attributes. Students are Email: [email protected] because people come first. less stressed and better able to access and utilize their lecturers. Preparing Students for Success 96% of Academics say Yes, but only It takes a village to raise a student 11% of Business Leaders agree The research which confronts sport they are. The University demonstrates management educators and career commitment to this by locating career service personnel cannot be ignored. advisors within the academic faculty The challenge continues to be balancing offices. academics with real-world demands, and particularly for sport management In terms of pooling collective resources, Research that compares studies by being an applied field. The prominent St. John’s created a community-based Inside Higher Ed (2014) and Gallup questions that arise in an educator’s way of preparing students for career Education (2014) suggests that 96% of chief academic officers believed they were mind are, what do students need in success. According to Dr. Kyriakides, “It doing a good job educating and preparing order to be successful post graduation? became evident that we must develop How do you develop their ability to more intentional partnerships between students for careers, while only 14% of Dr. Michelle Kyriakides Elisa Zervos, PCC Americans and 11% of business leaders work well both independently and in a faculty and career service professionals to strongly agreed that graduates have the team? And what can they and others do best prepare our diverse student body for participate in the assessment and analysis necessary skills and competencies to in order to assist and motivate students career success across the curriculum.” projects. Given that the first step in compete in the workplace. to reach, or hopefully, exceed their branding yourself is self-assessment, it is potential? The partnerships with faculty and career prudent for the students to know what services have indeed proven to be highly their skills are before they are fully able The 2014 National Association of “Sport Management educators are beneficial for all those involved, not to to articulate themselves in a confident Colleges and Employers data shows forever a complex Venn diagram mention the students who are reaping manner. employers want job candidates to have consisting of academia, business and the educational rewards with gusto. these six skills and abilities more than competitive sports. Oscillating from To aid students in practicing these any others: teaching, research and service to Career Services have also provided the techniques and applying what they have consulting with business ventures to faculty with industry-specific reports learned in the classroom, Career and Communication skills (77%) working with coaches and athletes, about the potential employment Internship Advisor Elisa Zervos, PCC, said Leadership skills (76%) the job dictates a demanding lifestyle. outcomes of their students. that students are strongly encouraged to Analytical/quantitative skills (73%) In their primary role as educators, it is meet separately with their career advisors. their ethical and moral obligation to St. John’s use of DISC assessments, which “At the culmination of the ‘project’ that Strong work ethic (72%) provide their students with all the tools are featured prominently within the Sport focuses on their career ambitions and Ability to work in a team (71%) necessary for success in the competitive Management department, helps with the plans, they meet to discuss logistics and Problem-solving skills (70%) industry of sports.” says St. John’s overall preparation of the students who formal etiquette. Things like cover letter, University (NY) Assistant Professor, Dr. resume and online presence.” David P. Hedlund. A study conducted by the Harvard Students are also prompted to participate St. John’s University (New York) Business School estimated making poor According to Dr. Michelle Kyriakides and in Career Services’ ‘Polished and has one of the most established hiring decisions can cost a company Elisa Zervos, PCC, research conducted at Professional Events’, which include mock as much as three times an employee’s St. John’s University pointed to the most and largest sport management interviews that they receive immediate programs internationally, having annual compensation package. effective way to support students with feedback from. The success of their started back in the 1970’s Organizations have good reason to be integration of academics and real world students reflects the success of their demands as through an organization of and boasting more than 400 program. discerning in who they recruit. collective resources, designed to educate undergraduate and 80 post students and assist them knowing who graduate students. Will your Professor Tingle elaborates on “Leadership is, using Athlete Assessments’ Sports ManagerDISC Profiles in his sport students management classes. “Our students as Leadership does.” take the Sports ManagerDISC This brief but incisive quote from Profile early in the semester as a succeed? Jacob Tingle Vice Chancellor of the University way for them to develop a strong of Denver, Peg Bradley-Doppes sense of understanding of who Assistant Professor resonates heavily with the modern they are. I firmly hold that the DISC Trinity University Texas notion of leadership. It is no longer Profile is an excellent way to allow students, future leaders themselves, After graduating from Trinity seen as something you are ‘born this important first step; a deep University Texas with a B.A., Tingle with’ but rather a skill that can understanding of self.” spent 14 years within collegiate be developed and grown from athletics, including five years as experience. It is all about what you “We also use the DISC Profiling an Associate AD. Along the way do, how you act and is based on to assemble teams for group he completed his M.A.A. and Ed.D behavior. Leadership can be taught. assignments. In this way it helps The success of your and took up his current position students facilitate the growth of within the Department of Business Professor Jacob Tingle from Trinity students reflects the relationships and recognize the Administration in 2009. He has also University observes firsthand the importance of fostering collaboration published nine journal articles and benefits of leadership development success of your sport to achieving common goals.” made 19 scholarly presentations focusing on behavior rather than management program. and is passionate about his personality traits. His approach In complement to the DISC Profiling students’ development. “Through to leadership contrasts heavily program, Professor Tingle uses empowerment, modeling, and my against the outdated views of ‘what weekly reflective journaling as a In today’s competitive world, own continuing education, my goal is makes a leader’. Professor Tingle means to let students slow down great technical ability is to prepare hard-working, intelligent promotes leadership development and unplug. Making an emphasis students to be critical, to be just, and through building self-awareness assumed. What differentiates that these journals are intentionally to care about those around them. I and expanding a person’s choices non-electronic, he implements this the most successful sport firmly hold that learning takes place, of behavior, depending on what is in order for the students to ponder professionals is their ability to not only through traditional methods best for the people they lead and what they’ve done over the previous (reading, writing and testing), but the situation they face. He cites the navigate the ‘people side’. week with respect to honing their often the most book The Leadership Challenge when own individual leadership style. impactful learning referring to credibility as being the Find out how you can ensure your takes place through foundation of leadership. sport management program is ahead doing.” of the pack with Athlete Assessments “The first thing a leader must do As one of his students said, about services for Educators and Academics. is find their voice, they must be reviewing their own Sports Visit bit.ly/1a62Rgp authentic, and they must let their ManagerDISC Profile Report: values guide their actions. A leader “Opened my eyes, made me who understands themselves can Photo courtesy of Trinity University then help inspire followers to work feel like the report knew me towards common goals.” better than I know myself.”

www.athleteassessments.com The Team Works! The secrets to successful group projects

A strong aversion to group assignments lion’s share of work or try to drag “Most importantly, I believe “We’ve also noticed that the students is a common refrain amongst students, their teammates along can be more that many students begin to now have a vocabulary to talk with program participants and professional than frustrating,” she said. “However, each other about their tendencies and academics. The activity itself prompts especially in athletics, our projects recognize the various styles of what they notice when the discussions images of anxiety filled late nights, and events require a significant team leadership and become more get heated or the stress builds during a extra work to cover for others, or feeling effort. We’ve seen increased group comfortable in making shifts group activity.” that everything is a compromise. It’s effectiveness, as the students are between leader and follower a common bond that the education more aware of their DISC Profile and The Center also places importance community loves to hate. the profiles of others. As they see the roles depending on the task.” on retaining the dual focus of group synergy created by a group that is able projects, these being the ultimate goals Yet, the key purpose of group projects to function cooperatively and maintain Sara’s program invests time and of the assignment and how they are is to develop the ability to work well a high level of engagement, they gain resources when starting group work, achieved. with others, build teamwork and to a greater sense of value and respect which pays back big dividends. They produce an outcome greater than what for their group.” The Center has used dedicate time for the groups to learn “The more you understand yourself individuals could deliver independently. the Sports ManagerDISC Profile in their about themselves and each other, how and the quicker you can identify Master’s Program for the past four years. they can each contribute best to the behavioral traits of your These skills are fundamental to success group and match the roles they take colleagues, you can outside of the classroom, and are a must As group projects can also be used within the group project to their natural adapt to the demands in any program, whether in professional as valuable learning experiences for strengths. Their program includes a of what they need to development or at university. So how do future positions, Sara stressed the debrief of their group’s team chemistry collectively deliver.” you capture all of the benefits of group importance of this being emphasized and the use of the Athlete Assessments’ The key message to the work, while maintaining enthusiasm and to students. Any time students work Team Dynamics Report. This has huge students is that you can engagement of those involved? in a team they have the opportunity benefits to the success of their projects succeed in any group! to develop skills that come with and their enjoyment of the process. The University of Washington’s Center this dynamic: communication, time for Leadership in Athletics, has mastered management, compromise and to value University of Washington Center for Leadership in Athletics successful group projects, which the the perspectives of others. cohort values. Center Director, Sara With UW’s two unique Master’s degree options in sport management and coaching, the Lopez notes the efficacy of this is Intercollegiate Athletic Leadership M.Ed. program attracts those aspiring to careers as steadily increasing. athletic directors, administrators and coaches. With a focus on the challenges common to athletic administration, the programs provide a better understanding of the role of athletics within the educational setting and the significant impact it has on student- “In the beginning, it was common for athletes. Their strong reputation reflects their cutting-edge academic program that the motivated, ambitious students prepares leaders for success in their athletic careers. These academic programs are to struggle with group projects. The based in the University of Washington’s College of Education, a college that ranks 7th thought of having to take on the in the US News & World Report rankings. Passion tells his students that passion and good People Jim Tennison communication are integral components Program Director, to a successful career in sport, in any role. Dallas Baptist University “It doesn’t matter what you want to do, His passion for sport encompasses all whatever you choose, do it with passion. roles from being an athlete, officiating, If you do it with passion, you will gain broadcasting, coaching, lecturing, the respect of others who will look to researching and cheering. With an you and follow you.” outstanding academic and professional career, his students benefit from his extraordinary experience and exceptional For a man who has spent much of his ability to communicate. career communicating only through - Undergraduate degree in Marketing, gestures, he highlights the importance Management and Theater from East Texas of effective communication in a world Baptist University that is becoming increasingly dependent - Sport Management Master’s from on interaction through the online Mississippi State University hemisphere. - Completing PhD in Sport Management from Texas Woman’s University - 16 years as a professional mascot including “Social media and the way of the world Carolina Mudcats, Colorado Rockies, Texas today is a trend that we must live Rangers and Dallas Mavericks with but good old face-to-face, truly - NBA Championship Team 2011 listening and interacting with people DBU Program is our greatest ability. Social media is Master of Arts in Sport Management fine, we can’t stop that wave, but we - Strong leadership development focus must teach them to maintain the skill of - Broad spectrum of industry in recreational, communicating and reading people and interscholastic, collegiate and professional then knowing how to motivate them, or sport that skill will just get lost.” - Specializing in athletic events - Faith. Leadership. Service. Professor Tennison has been using Athlete Assessments’ Sports The transformation from NBA team ManagerDISC Profiles and finding mascot to a distinguished University its uses to be multifaceted. “I am Professor is not an expected character finding so many great uses for DISC arc, but it is something that Jim Tennison in communication, motivation and derives huge amounts of passion from. all things ‘people’. From leadership, communication skills, helping with The former mascot for the Dallas students’ researching, planning career Mavericks and now Professor of Sport paths, to even marriage counseling at Management at Dallas Baptist University our church!” Empowering Mentors A successful formula for mentoring programs The NOS has received a wealth of positive feedback from its participants, Official Appreciation The impact a mentor can have on officials using and sharing the results of especially from those who have worked someone’s development can be their DISC Profiles*. By understanding Referees and umpires stand in the with the program for numerous years profound and the benefits enormous for themselves more deeply and learning crossfire between fans, coaches as mentors and senior officiators. The both sides of the relationship. However about each other, it provides an avenue program allows for the proliferation and athletes. Rarely do they receive many programs, despite the best of to build rapport quickly. of information and educated opinion significant positive recognition for intentions, struggle to reap the rewards across the full spectrum of sport their work, which is performed in of mentoring and success rates vary “It’s important to realize that no officiating. This has led to officials one of the most dynamic, fast-paced dramatically. Many say overly structured two mentoring relationships are the returning from NOS workshops with a and scrutinized environments. They programs can seem forced or ingenuous, same. Because the program is based broader understanding of their field and must remain calm and impartial in yet more relaxed programs are hit and on senior officials facilitating less a willingness to share that information the face of unmitigated battering miss. However, setting itself apart from experienced people, there needs to be with others. from all sides. Being resilient others is the mentor-based scholarships an understanding that each official will enables them to survive in their offered by the Australian Sports have a different method in how they One of the outcomes of this is the senior Commission (ASC) to prominent up-and- teach each element, which will in turn profession and they remain the officials begin to appreciate that they coming referees and sporting officials. reflect on how it gets understood by the thankless mediators sport relies on. are leaders within their sport, providing mentoree.” advice, guidance and mentorship to However their importance is The National Officiating Scholarships the scholarship holders. This has a substantial. Without these unbiased (NOS) uses mentoring as an effective Ash says that importance is placed on positive knock-on effect whereupon the officiators, sport is inoperable and way for the scholarship officials to gain different learning styles, communication more confident the senior officials are would likely implode. They do their knowledge, experience and develop within the relationship, and making as mentors, the more successful their their skills under the supervision of a an emphasis on mentorees and their job without any expectation of relationships with their mentorees are. senior official, past or present, of their role. “Mentorees should drive the gratitude and with a professionalism sport. It boasts being the highest leveled relationship, though mentors also need and dignity unrivalled in most Many of the past scholarship holders officiating program of its kind globally to contribute. However, it is all about workplaces. Whilst others may have progressed to officiate at a national and provides an effective development understanding what you want from your not appreciate the decisions they and international level. The program pathway for high-performance officials. mentor.” make, an effort should be made stands alone on the international stage, to understand the trials they go transcending the world-recognized The ASC’s Ash Synnott says the program through in order to enforce the rules standards by providing a unique is anchored in this dynamic to gain the of the sports we love. Give a cheer, way of training. Several international significant benefits from mentoring. He pat on the back and thanks to all associations are shadowing the ASC to emphasizes how they invest time and emulate the program’s techniques and officials in our sporting world! resources to develop the mentoring development. relationship skills for both parties. It starts from a strong foundation with all *The ASC NOC program uses Athlete Assessments’ Sports ManagerDISC Profiles with the participants and mentors. Across US collegiate sports, women hold only 20% of top coaching jobs. Women coach just 4% of men’s The NCAA WCA: sports and yet men are the head coach for over 60% of women’s sports. Co-founder Celia Slater has her eye firmly on the disparity in Changing Lives and Sport jobs between genders, citing the need for opportunities for female Skills development, retention, mentoring and coaches. “Women need more jobs and more opportunities. A common collaboration for Women Coaches misconception is that men can coach WCA Staff: Laurie, Holly, Judy, Celia, and Ann. either gender, but women can’t. There needs to be more professional The Women Coaches Academy Ann feels that the commitment and development and more ways to stay (WCA) celebrated its 30th program in energy that the coaches have for their connected, grow and get support.” 2013, and continues to be the most career development is always a high respected and sought after coach point of the Academy. The women are Co-founder Judy Sweet, says she development program available to dedicated to doing whatever it takes loves seeing the transition that female coaches in the US. Having to rejuvenate, learn, become more occurs over the week at the Academy, produced more than 1,100 graduates marketable and focus on increased that many coaches describe as life over the last decade, its central aim is success. changing. “They realize that they are to advance the coaches’ existing skills not alone with the challenges they with professional development in The WCA sets up mentoring and face and that they have a support Athlete Assessments’ Liz Hanson, who presents at the areas outside the specifics of their own collaborative efforts within the Academy, system to get them through the good WCA, with Coach Beverly Kearney at a WCA Event. sport, and emphasize the importance believing that when the best minds in and bad times. They gain knowledge of management skills, communication, female coaching come together in a and skills that lead to better decision-making, leadership and ethics. collective educational environment, the coaching, more self-confidence, best results can be achieved. Inaugural better experiences for their athletes, Director of Education, Ann Salerno says WCA graduate and Head Softball Coach and more success.” “We assist coaches in understanding that at Missouri State, Holly Hesse, has career success will never come simply worked with the WCA since 2003. She Judy encourages coaches to be via the X’s and O’s. Successful coaches says the most important benefits are life-long learners throughout their must be able to utilize knowledge “Skill building and networking. These career, to find role models and and teach. They must be able to set are the prerequisite for success in any then watch, listen and learn. She goals, measure progress, motivate and industry. It is extremely rewarding when advises to prepare, take calculated re-strategize when needed. The best a coach says they were thinking about risks in advancing your career, and coaches communicate in ways that leaving the profession but come out the only accept jobs that you feel you The WCA celebrating its 30th program. are appropriate and resourceful for other side of the Academy with a desire will be supported in and can grow. the situation. It does not happen by to stay and be better.” “And as you grow and succeed, accident or in proportion to the love of mentor other women coaches so The NCAA WCA has used Athlete competition. It happens with dedicated Part of the Academy is assisting them they have opportunities to also on-going effort to become competent, in mapping their future goals for their grow and succeed. You are making Assessments’ CoachDISC Profile and then extraordinary.” coaching career and encouraging them an incredible difference in the lives within their program since 2008. to mentor their athletes to become the of your athletes and in the world of next generation of women coaches. sports. We need you!” component of the curriculum, along Top Coaches Have One, Do You? with topics such as understanding What’s your one’s coaching objectives relative to Coaching Philosophy Fundamentals & Developing Yours the organization, team and athletes; preparation as well as practice and Coaching Find a phenomenal coach with a wealth of demonstration of the ability to develop and experience (and full trophy cabinet), and evaluate the technical and practical aspects ask them what their coaching philosophy of coaching. Philosophy? is. They will immediately provide you with a succinct account of what principles they “I have gained a reputation among adhere to and the standards they hold. students as a professor that provides Coaches are constantly told Ask a mid-career coach with a developing hands on activities and assignments, using reputation the same question, and they’ll coaching practice plans and CoachDISC that having a well-defined likely articulate their vision and how it’s in order to write one’s own coaching coaching philosophy is a critical evolving. Ask a fledgling coach and they philosophy.” will look at you quizzically and shrug their component of a successful shoulders. The class uses the CoachDISC Profile career. But, it can be a challenge assessment to understand their coaching to develop on your own, and it A coaching philosophy is a set of values style and preferences, together with takes time to evolve. and beliefs, which determine why and how the Athlete Assessments’ Your Coaching you behave as a coach. It is developed Philosophy Workbook as their guide. This from your values, personal experiences, St. John’s University New York’s Assistant workbook progresses through five key the knowledge you have accumulated, Professor Dr. David P. Hedlund knows the steps on the path to articulating their own Want a head-start and your coaching style. All of this directly benefits of a well-developed coaching coaching philosophy. This can take varying impacts your coaching practices. philosophy, both from an academic amounts of time, from thirty minutes or boost in the right perspective and from his personal to numerous hours, depending on how “When you have clarity about experience as an international soccer thoroughly you review each step. direction? ‘what you are all about’, decisions player and coach. Your Coaching Philosophy Workbook guides For a limited time, get your FREE and what actions to take become “The nuances that comprise coaching the coach through five key steps: copy of ‘Your Coaching Philosophy clear and are consistent.” - Bo Hanson philosophies are subtle and complex but 1. What is most important to you all are integral to the success of a coach.” Workbook: A how-to guide to 2. Learn from your own experiences developing yours’. “I know what it would take for me A clear philosophy creates consistency in 3. What is your Coaching Style to become a better person as well your approach, enables you to prioritize 4. Discover your Coaching Philosophy those areas which create your desired 5. Keep it visible and alive as a better coach. Before I thought results, and easily make high quality coaching was just knowing how to decisions and actions. This consistent Access your FREE behavior during practices and competition “In terms of the activities related to play Basketball, but it’s more than also develops the trust and respect vital CoachDISC and writing their own Coach’s Pack at that, it’s understanding others, for a quality coach-athlete relationship. coaching philosophy, I consistently bit.ly/18UlDUq being able to listen, and knowing As we know from the Olympic research, receive feedback on student this relationship is critical and a significant what your objectives are.” determining factor in achieving athletic evaluations which suggests that in - Direct quote from one of Dr. David P. success (measured by medals and PBs). many cases, these types of activities Hedlund’s students are among the best activities [email protected] In Dr. Hedlund’s ‘Theories and Techniques USA: + 1 760 742 5157 students are required to complete of Effective Coaching’ class, developing the UK: +44 20 7193 4575 during their tenure as a student.” student’s coaching philosophy is a key NZ: +64 (0)9 889 2979 Australia: +61 (0)7 3102 5333 Powering the People Side things you need to know of Sport with DISC 5about DISC in sport DISC’s primary purpose is developing DISC Profiling is the fastest and most DISC focuses on behavior, how someone There is no right or wrong, best or worst self-awareness and providing a framework effective way to develop the ‘people side’ prefers to act and what they do, rather DISC Profile. We have profiled many of the to understand, then build effective of sport. than personality traits. Behavior is flexible, world’s best and see no pattern for who relationships with others. personality is not. We never ask an athlete is more or less successful based on their DISC Profiling provides practical strategies 1 to change their personality, but coaches 3 DISC style. constantly ask athletes to adjust their Why is this important? Because in sport, to improve performance through: Your aim is never to ‘improve’ your DISC technique or what they do. what differentiates the best is never just - Developing self-awareness, Profile. Instead, the focus is on developing physical or technical ability. Instead, it is - Effective communication, At its core, DISC is a simple four-quadrant self-awareness, knowing what works model. This is critical in sport as it for you and what doesn’t, and ultimately who has the best mental, emotional and - More productive relationships, relationship skills. (The 2008 Olympic allows coaches and athletes to quickly 4 increasing the choices of behavior to - Tailoring coaching, and Study showed the top factors contributing understand, remember and use. Yet, you what is most effective to the situation and - Identifying how each person contributes 2 can also delve much deeper into its theory those you work with. This is key to high to medal and PB performances, were a their best. and application to truly master this area performance and leadership. strong coach-athlete relationship, and a of expertise. (Personality tests, such as Its applications range from improving DISC was first developed in the 1920s and high level of athlete self-awareness.) MBTI, are psychometric assessments, because it was never copyrighted, it has team effectiveness and interpersonal are more complex and require extensive been continually developed, extended and relationships, to leadership development, training to administer and work with. Also As Joe Gibbs said: “You don’t win with X’s improved on since. As a result, DISC is the to recruitment and professional most are developed for a business context and O’s. What you win with is people.” most valid and reliable tool available. only, not sport.) 5 development plans.

Athlete Assessments’ DISC Profiles are specifically tailored to sport. Each assessment includes a 12 minute online survey and results in a personalized DISC Profile Report (with summaries for easy use). It details the individual’s personal style, strengths, limiting behaviors, The DISC model explained communication preferences and the environment they perform best in. DISC measures the degree of For Athletes & Players - the AthleteDISC Profile: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness Guarded, Task/Goal Focused Get practical strategies to coach athletes to their individual needs. Know the behaviors and Conscientious behavior. Everyone producing their best performances for greater consistency when it counts the most. has their unique level of each in the Help your athletes build self-awareness to make improvements and take greater context of their role in sport. (Other responsibility for their behavior, on and off “the field”. profiling tools say you are this or that. Conscientious Dominance DISC measures as a scale, which is Prepared Direct more accurate and useful; and allows Follows Rules Decisive For Coaches - the CoachDISC Profile: rapid comparisons to be made.) Process Driven Results Focus The distinguishing factor of great coaches is their constant pursuit for the competitive Indirect, Direct, edge, in their athletes and themselves. Coaches will better understand their coaching The four-quadrant model explains Slower Faster styles (and their fellow coaches’ and staff) to find new ways to further improve their Paced Paced coaching and communication with athletes and others. Their coaching results will only the behavior of people with high degrees of D, I, S and C. For Steadiness Influence further improve, guaranteed! Patient Extroverted example, someone with a high level of Loyal Talkative Dominance, is direct and faster-paced Team Focus Brings Energy For Sports Administrators & Professionals - the ManagerDISC Profile: (x-axis); guarded and goal focused Provide your people with comprehensive understanding of themselves and those they (y-axis). In contrast, someone who work with. It quickly improves communication, working relationships and ultimately has a high Steadiness, is indirect results. Use with recruitment, as a foundation for professional development plans or and slower-paced (x-axis); open and Open, Relationship/People Oriented part of a team building exercise. relationship oriented (y-axis).

Be strategic. Free up your valuable time from the stress of ‘people issues’. Conflict can occur with people of different DISC styles due to their conflicting priorities (the Take action to get ahead today. See the back cover of this magazine for more details. y-axis, task/goal vs relationship/people focus) and/or their pace (x-axis, slower vs faster). REAL PEOPLE Across the Codes Triple Championship Coach An insight into the five ‘football’ high performance coach development USC’s Andrea Gaston - Keeping the Faith in Coaching programs, and those who lead them, in Australia hilst coaching itself is a now chosen profession. “My path Australia has a long and successful history we develop character and integrity, and demanding profession, to becoming the coach at USC was of being a formidable sporting nation from integrity comes leadership. “Only WUniversity of Southern actually a long and winding road. I across a vast array of sports. In ‘football’ by knowing yourself can you become an California’s Head Women’s Golf Coach spent 14 years away from golf and alone there are five major codes, all effective leader.” Andrea Gaston is confidently assured worked in business.” taking their unique place in the sporting in how to succeed in this tough but landscape. Consistent across all football All five football code national bodies profoundly rewarding line of work. Her Drawing on her experiences, she says codes is the belief that the quality of engage Athlete Assessments to dedication, poise and professionalism the best advice for those starting out is their coaches determines the quality of contribute to their high performance draw you in when you meet her, and that it’s never easy when you’re going their game, engagement of players and coach programs, the top tiers of their her long-time relationships with those through the trenches, but if you find ultimately their success. As a result, they accreditation. Each course uses the she’s coached are testament to her your passion it will anchor you. “Keep all take coach development seriously and CoachDISC Profile as part of their authentic generous spirit. the faith that you will find something invest significantly in coach accreditation program, for which Bo Hanson also that enables you to use your gifts. and continued professional development. personally facilitates a core component. With over 18 years of experience and If you’re not in a career that you are on the heels of winning the 2013 passionate about, bloom where you At the high performance level of coach While the primary purpose of the NCAA Championship (along with two are planted and realize that you are development there is a strong leadership CoachDISC Profile is to further develop previously), Andrea believes in the learning skills that prepare you for the emphasis. The coaches participating in coaches’ self-awareness and deeper importance of building trust with her next part of your journey.” these programs are already experts in knowledge of their coaching style, it players, and of fostering relationships the technical aspects of their football also provides a useful framework for within teams. “People don’t care what In looking to the future, Andrea says game, and the focus moves to people understanding their coaching staff, you know until they know that you she is inspired to continue to develop management, mastering communication players and others, to develop strong care. Once they know that I really care, young players in the USC program and and teaching skills, and developing team interpersonal and communication skills, that opens the door for players to be coach championship golfers. “I would culture. develop team culture and assist in role more candid and unafraid to talk about love to continue our streak of being in allocation. issues that concern them.” the hunt.” Legendary coach Vince Lombardi believed in the importance of strong self- In the following pages gain an insight into She also speaks about the best ways awareness in both coaches and players. each course and the person who leads the of overcoming insecurities and being He purported that from self-knowledge program. (See the summary table at the the best at your role. “Be very patient end for an overview of each code.) and don’t rush to conclusions or make decisions too quickly. Stay strong, have persistence and follow your passion.”

An Exercise Science major, Andrea says she didn’t really choose her career in sport but gradually reached her their coaching to players’ needs, and provide a learning environment FAST FACTS of continuous improvement and - AFL High Performance Coaching Australian Football development as a team. Course (aka ‘Level 3’) - 12 month course (5-6 The Australian Football League (AFL) There are considerable challenges presides over one of the most iconic consecutive days residential, 6 ensuring coaches are trained to the assessment tasks) forms of football in the country. Since standard that the course dictates and 1897 the game has been the cause for Lawrie says there are important qualities - 20% on field | 80% in class celebration as well as heated bar room coaches must harness if they want to conversation. While its traditional - 24 coaches each year with become effective and successful at usually 1 female coach (and will heartland is in the south, AFL has built what they do. “It takes time to manage run a 2nd program within the a strong base across Australia and is the complexity of the game – such year on demand) growing internationally. things as the size of the field, number of players, physicality, team structures, - 40% of coaches work for a Professional Club, 40% are The AFL facilitates a vast array rotations, diversity amongst players. of courses including the High former professional players and Lawrie Woodman Coaches also need things that help them Performance Coaching Course at remainder are from state to understand themselves and know leagues or in development the elite end of their accreditation Draft Combine. “It’s a time which their players, and assist in teaching and coaching roles program. This course is for coaches brings all major industry performance, communication.” who aspire to train and develop development and recruiting people - Most important goal of elite footballers and it covers a wide together in the one place. We draw The most common question he is asked the program: To improve range of relevant issues, including on professional coaches as facilitators from coaches is how to have the more coaching skills, prepare them for coaching roles in AFL clubs and time dedicated to topics such as and mentors to the participants.” challenging, difficult conversations with the ‘AFL Talent Pathway’. technology and public relations. players, parents and club personnel. Lawrie says he loves being surrounded Persistence is also an important attribute “Using the CoachDISC provides AFL Coaching Development Manager, by the wealth of coaches, who see and Lawrie’s favorite quote is Michael a systematic approach and Lawrie Woodman, says that each year the bigger picture of their role in Jordan’s: “I’ve missed more than 9,000 direction towards understanding they take advantage of the location developing players. “It’s great to shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 yourself and your personal style in and timing of the course, being the work with so many motivated people games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to relationships; and understanding week that immediately follows the whose aim is to produce better take the game winning shot and missed. and relating to your players.” AFL Grand Final (which participants environments for the sport and assist I’ve failed over and over and over again “We have a long and solid attend), and also overlaps with the players to become better people as in my life. And that is why I succeed.” relationship with Athlete well as better footballers.” He believes Assessments which delivers an coaching is teaching and managing essential service in the people; and that the best coaches are development of high performance people-orientated, can individualize coaches. This expertise integrates well with other activities and messages we believe are important.” feel a change is needed. Therefore preparing them to deal with this FAST FACTS environment is a vital skill.” - FFA/AFC Professional Diploma (aka Pro-Diploma) Football When pressed to offer a concise - 385 hours (2 contact A game that can draw comparisons summary of what a successful components of 8 days and 5 with religion in England and South coach needs, the 30-year industry days, distance learning tasks America, Football or ‘Soccer’ is a veteran immediately pointed to a need and coaching hours) sport with a significant following for the coach to have “a deep Football around the world. Some parts of the Knowledge, a clear Vision and - 50% on field | 50% in class world follow the cosmopolitan code Philosophy, high competency in Training - 24 coaches each year (1 female with a bit more passion than others and Management and the ability to coach in 2014 program) but nevertheless it has the potency influence Match performance. It’s these to inspire, exhilarate and keep an principles that make for a top - Most important goal of enormous base of loyal fans. coach.” the program: To encourage candidates to establish a working Given that globally the code has The expectations, assessment tasks methodology and culture that Rob Sherman an exhaustingly high caliber of and time commitment required by strives for excellence on a daily professional football coaches, it’s Performance Phase building block. the course participants is extremely basis. only natural that a sporting nation The course includes 13 days of contact demanding. While the program “Using the CoachDISC really like Australia has a high caliber of time where every aspect of the life facilitators do their utmost to provide makes the coach find out about their own. The Football Federation of the professional coach is covered in support (and encouragement), life as themselves and consider the of Australia (FFA) has a spectrum of detail. a professional football coach is exactly behaviors of others. Manage courses catering to the development this. The career carries enormous self and manage others are of coaches at the range of levels, the Head of Coach Education for the FFA, responsibility and personal commitment key components and DISC is highest tier being the Pro-Diploma. Rob Sherman, says that the most which is demonstrated by the course fundamental to this.” rewarding part of his role is seeing participants consistently. The course is for coaches who work coaches do well. However, he says “What I most value about with performance players in the elite their biggest challenge is “Time! The Rob’s favorite quote is Henry Ford’s “If working with Athlete ranking of the game, and are either turnover rate is ridiculous. Coaches you think you can or think you can’t, Assessments is the strong professional coaches with a national need to be given more time to effect you’re right.” and his best advice to liaison in developing the or international league, or are national the changes necessary to sustain long coaches is “it’s not the answer that program to meet the needs or state elite development coaches. term performance. The ability to buy matters, it is the question”. of the candidate in a bespoke The Pro-Diploma focuses on the time is crucial.” manner related to the sport. The attention to detail and support The course delivers training specific provided to each candidate and to the nature of their professional the regular feedback is coaching role. Rob says “For example, exceptional.” managing change. Most coaches get a job because the board or owner emphasizes a greater understanding of different coaching methods. This FAST FACTS is to develop the ‘art and science’ of - High Performance Coach Level 3 coaching with stronger communication - 12 month course (4 days Rugby League skills such as instruction, questioning, residential, 6 assessment tasks) While Rugby Leagues’ history is feedback and managing conflict. entrenched as the ‘working class - 100% in class game’, the modern code has gained “There is a larger need for coaches to - 40 coaches each year (20 per a much broader appeal across the understand themselves, their coaching program in New South Wales & country. Its popularity recently style and how to adapt to their players, Queensland) confirmed when the National Rugby the team’s needs and what the situation League (NRL) signed the largest calls for. This is strengthened with the - Most important goal of the television rights deal within Australia. use of the CoachDISC Profiling.” program: To equip participants With this enviable position comes with the skills and knowledge expectations and responsibilities, Dylan recognizes that the best coaches to structure and implement particularly in regard to the standard have an understanding of each of their a program of their own that of the game, player behavior and the Dylan Hides players and how to motivate each of effectively ensures that talented quality of coaches. them to perform to the best of their and A-grade level players reach improving performance analysis, ability, consistently. He distinguishes their full potential under their The NRL High Performance Coach advanced attack and defense skills, quality coaching exists when there regimen. (HPC) Course has been tailor-made to skill acquisition, coaching and is open-mindedness, dedication, “The use of CoachDISC Profiles ensure that current and prospective leadership, physical conditioning to selflessness and respect. elite coaches meet these challenging improve player performance, and helps in understanding how people behave, why they expectations. Given that the program psychological preparation. Persistence is also a common theme behave in a certain way and is the highest level of accreditation as Dylan, like AFL’s Lawrie Woodman, simple strategies to deal in the profession, it achieves this NRL Coach Education Coordinator ascribes his favorite quote to Michael with a variety of personalities incredibly well. Dylan Hides, who redeveloped and Jordan’s “I’ve failed over and over and whether they be coaches, launched the latest HPC curriculum over again in my life....and that is why I players, stakeholders.” The participants range from in 2012, attributes this as being succeed”. The best advice that he has professional assistant coaches within one of his most rewarding career received is that with anything you do, “Athlete Assessments have the NRL and coaches from the Under achievements to date. “I love having you only get out what you put in. added value to our program 20’s league (NYC), to State Cup the opportunity to challenge coaches’ with relevant strategies and and junior representative coaches. philosophies on rugby league, to solutions in ways which we can The course provides modules in assist in the development of critical improve as coaches and get the thinking and to help them grow best from our players.” personally and professionally.”

As all coaches in the HPC Program have excellent technical knowledge and tactical skills, the course playbook’ in which they perceive their success will lie. “Instead, a greater FAST FACTS focus is directed towards striving to - ARU Level 3 Coaching Course be athlete centered and meeting the - 12 month course (2 x 4-day Rugby Union needs of their players and team overall. Internationally renowned as the residentials, 10 assessment This means more education and tasks) gentlemen’s code, Rugby Union has training around successfully managing earned its place in history as dignified and communicating with athletes, staff, - 25% on field | 75% in class and nuanced, while ensuring an management and their boards.” exciting future with its ‘Sevens’ now - 20 coaches every 2 years being an Olympic sport. With teams Matthew says that the CoachDISC - Coaches are Professional from France to South Africa it is also Profiles, together with the theory and (SuperRugby), Premiership one of the most globally affecting. application of DISC, is used heavily Grade and High Level Youth Keeping this in mind, and with the throughout the course and is an representative coaches from aim of internationally being ahead invaluable tool when developing across Australia of the rest, the Australian Rugby coaches at this level. - Most important goal of the Union (ARU) Level Three Coaching Matthew Wilkie program: Provide education and Course is designed to provide their The biggest challenge for Australian training to coaches working in coaches with advanced education to Australian Universities, makes for a rugby union coaches is the domestic environments that engage with enhance their abilities in high-level comprehensive learning program. opportunities for talented coaches to professional athletes in their competition. take on and that there is currently a rugby programs (either full time Coaching Pathway Services Manager significant step from club to professional or part time). The high performance coaching for the ARU, Matthew Wilkie, who has rugby, with limited opportunities. “The CoachDISC Profiling is course consists of pre and post season a Master’s degree in Coaching and is However, Matthew does allude that a practical way to emphasize live-in camps, features both rugby currently completing his PhD in Talent this is all about to change! (Watch this union specific and broad learning to coaches the importance Development, leads the course. He space.) of understanding how people modules, and rigorous assessment. says the ultimate aim of the program communicate, interact and Modules are delivered by a range is creativity, and an interest in being One of the most important facets of respond to different of field experts including senior able to think like this bodes well this course is that the opportunity approaches; of thinking beyond coaching staff, elite coaches from for coach participants. The most exists for further training and ongoing the technical/tactical; as well as neighboring sports as well as leading successful coaches in rugby union development once the course has better understanding for technicians from the Australian are leaders first, athlete centered, finished. This maintains momentum for coaches of ‘how’ they coach and Institute of Sport. All this, combined excellent communicators, challenge ongoing improvement and raises the bar do what they do.” with academic expertise from leading learning, enjoy what they do, and in how they continue to progress. “Athlete Assessments adds “work harder off the field than on it”. value to our course through expert delivery of information The program’s philosophy is to shift in an area that complements the focus for coaches who have a and integrates with the ARU belief in and desire for ‘the ultimate coaching development approach.” Profiling of the three national elite teams. This provides the coaches FAST FACTS with both the theoretical knowledge - High Performance Coach Touch Football and the practical application of using Development and Athlete the profiling to inform their coaching Profiling Program A staple of backyard gatherings, Touch strategies, communication skills and - 4 days Football has ingrained itself not only developing the team culture. as an institution of social occasions - 100% in class but as a highly competitive code in On a personal note, Australia winning - 10 coaches plus DISC Profiling Australia as well. Many professional the 2011 Touch Football World Cup of senior men’s, women’s and players in other codes, particularly in Scotland is one of Wayne’s most mixed teams rugby league and rugby union, have rewarding career moments and he a strong background playing touch receives enormous satisfaction in seeing - Coaches are the national football and this has been formally a coach improve to a level where they representative coaches from recognized with the recent agreement get the best out of themselves and their across the range of Australian being signed between Touch Football team. The best advice he has been teams Australian (TFA) and the National given is to always surround yourself Wayne Grant - Most important goal of the Rugby League (NRL). As the sport and your program with the best. “The program: Educate coaches and carves out a more elite presence, “In my opinion coaches need a greater best coaches, the best support staff, athletes on DISC Profiling and coaches and players are rising to the understanding of themselves and all the best people you can get in their its relevance to individual challenge to further develop their their strengths and weaknesses in field and give them ownership and coaches, players and team high performance skills. order to work effectively. This, along responsibility.” performance. with a better grasp of individual TFA High Performance Manager, behavior profiles and how to identify Wayne also shares his favorite quote “Using DISC Profiles broadened Wayne Grant, is in charge of coach that within individuals in their team of recent times being “Those who our awareness of behaviors and player development. His insight will tie together to bring about are skilled in combat do not become and communication styles is consistent with the other codes improved team performance.” angered, those who are skilled at and how it relates to improved as to what constitutes best practice winning do not become afraid. Thus performance.” coaching. “The best coaches are the Wayne ran the first high performance the wise win before the fight, while the best people managers who have program of this kind over 2012 and ignorant fight to win.” “We value Athlete Assessments’ the ability to bring a team together, 2013 and sees the stark benefits of depth of experience and give them a well-researched game DISC Profiles in prompting incisive knowledge in working with plan and the skills and belief to be self-reflection and analysis. This is team sports, coach development successful.” He describes quality meeting a need within the coaching and their ability to relate to our coaching as engaging, innovative and ranks, as demonstrated by the most coaches and players in a having accountability. common question Wayne is asked by practical way.” coaches is how to better understand their players and what they need.

Their program is a combination of traditional coach professional development, together with DISC fun factor! Include lots of Ensure your program is highly interactive Ensure your program is highly interactive for improved uptake and retention. These for improved uptake and retention. videos, games and experiential exercises videos, games and experiential exercises studies, reference materials, assessments, studies, reference materials, assessments, with multimodal resources. Use quality case with multimodal resources. Use quality different modalities make learning enjoyable. different experiences and lessons learnt. individual reflection on prior personal individual reflection accountable for putting it into practice. something’ and ‘doing it’. Application is and ‘doing it’. something’ Include quality facilitation of discussions, Include quality facilitation key. Incorporate learning check-points for Incorporate key. feedback on how they are progressing, and feedback on how they are progressing, There’s a distinct difference between ‘knowing a distinct difference There’s buddies or mentors who helppeople your stay with guest speakers. Credible and experienced facilitators Credible and experienced facilitators are vital for your program to be taken are vital for your program to be taken Avoid the ‘sugar rush’ of a one-off occasion. of a one-off the ‘sugar rush’ Avoid seriously. Further enhance your impact seriously. content and provide development experiences. content and provide Development is not an event, it’s a process. Be an event, it’s Development is not disciplined with ongoing opportunities to engage, revisit opportunities to engage, revisit disciplined with ongoing skills and content is Make sure contextual. always use the basis to experience. Use real life relevant and examples as their existing and previous develop their

AFL - Football - League - Rugby - Touch REAL PEOPLE Where are you at? Career Insights Y N Brian Canavan, Head of the Sydney Roosters Football Club Do you want to enhance how you cover vital ‘people skills’ (2013 NRL Premiership winners), shares what’s central to success to make your program stand out?

hilst being at the helm of the across the organization and industry to Sydney Roosters through be truly effective.” Would ‘flipping your classroom’ improve at least one aspect Whis second NRL premiership of your program? is a much-savored achievement in After teaching for 10 years (whilst itself, Brian Canavan highlights his coaching juniors and seniors) he Would you like to convert the groans into cheers when greatest sense of value in fostering received his first full-time position in the potential of his staff and players. professional sport as the S&C coach you assign group projects? He credits his ability to relate to at the Brisbane Broncos. He has spent people, build strong relationships and the next 24 years progressing through Are you looking for an effective step-by-step process on his thorough understanding of the the coaching ranks, rising through importance of people skills as central management, holding key positions how to develop coaching philosophies? to his success to date. within the governing body and in consulting. Do your people and/or students need a relevant and well- Brian’s advice to those starting out in proven assessment tool that is specific to sport? their career in sport is to volunteer “Now in my role, I can predict the to coach junior sport and continue knock-on effects of any decision I make to coach until you master people will have throughout the organization, Would incorporating effective mentor-mentoree management. “All you need to learn on our team, fans, wider community relationships benefit your program? to succeed in your professional career and our sport. This I value more and (and life), to influence and to lead, can more every day.” be honed this way.” Are you looking for the latest in leadership development that works? Brian also stressed the importance of diversifying your knowledge of the industry. The strident necessity Would you like to rely on an industry leader, who knows of having experience and insight sport and has an exceptional reputation? across the entire spectrum of sport is essential in order to be truly effective in a leadership role. “Being an expert Contact Athlete Assessments to book your complementary in or having exceptional experience consultation to review your current program and how to in just one ‘silo’ doesn’t serve you in reap the benefits of well-proven, best-practice development senior management. You need insight strategies. See the back cover for contact details. Watch for our next issue on Team Performance and the special edition on Women in Sport.

Sport is played by people, coached by people and managed by people, so it is imperative to get the ‘people side’ right to achieve and sustain success.

Whether you’re responsible for university programs or managing the professional development of those who have years of experience in coaching or sport management, great performance is never ‘arrived at’.

- Improve communication and coaching skills - Build strong & effective team chemistry - Deliver best practice leadership training - Make confident & informed recruitment decisions - Help your people be consistent top performers - Make ‘people skills’ the competitive advantage

The most successful sporting organizations rely on recruiting, developing and retaining the best sports professionals, coaches and athletes. If you are looking to improve your management, coaching, team development or leadership skills, specifically within sport, go to where the top Olympic, National, Professional and University teams go to get ahead and stay ahead.

Contact Athlete Assessments: www.athleteassessments.com [email protected] USA (+1) 760 742 5157 Australia (+61) 07 3102 5333 New Zealand (+64) 09 889 2979 UK (+44) 20 7193 4575