Setting the Tone

Harrison Bernstein, founder and executive director of Soldiers To Sidelines, kicked off the seminar by welcoming participants and laying out the roadmap to certification. Alongside co-host Johannah Zabal, Director of Sports Performance, Harrison set expectations for engagement and emphasized the benefits of the STS program—including lifetime access to educational resources, STS gear, and powerful networking opportunities.

Toby Johnson, CEO of Clean Simple Eats and former Army aviator, opened the week with a powerful talk on leadership, authenticity, and resilience. Her transition from the military to corporate America showcased the value of staying true to one’s identity. “Courage,” she said, “isn’t the absence of fear—it’s action in spite of it.”

Molly Miller, Regional Director at the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), emphasized the importance of holistic wellness. She encouraged veterans to take full advantage of WWP’s physical and mental health programs. Melissa Washington, founder of the Women Veterans Alliance, reinforced the need for continued community and connection, highlighting upcoming opportunities for involvement.

Coaching Philosophy: The STS Approach

Harrison led several foundational sessions focused on what it truly means to coach. He introduced the STS Hierarchy of Coaching Success: strategy, technique, fitness, motivation, and, most importantly, inspiration. Harrison challenged attendees to “influence others to do what you want them to do because they want to do it,” emphasizing the role of purpose, communication, and character.

The Power of Authenticity

Johannah Zabal brought her own journey into focus through stories of vulnerability and growth. Her “Know Thyself” presentation asked participants to reflect on their identity beyond titles—exploring values, goals, and lived experiences. She introduced her six rules for authentic coaching, reminding everyone that “pretending to be someone else is exhausting—your true self is your superpower.”

Expert Insights: A Dream Team of Presenters

The seminar featured an extraordinary lineup of guest presenters, each of whom brought specialized expertise to elevate the coaches in training:

• Dr. Allison Brager, Army Major, neuroscientist, and sleep expert, delivered eye-opening sessions on the science of sleep. She explained how sleep affects muscle recovery, brain function, and athletic performance—especially for female athletes—and offered strategies for improving sleep hygiene.

• Dr. Anna Swisher, Director of Sports Science and Coach Development at USA Weightlifting, provided deep insights into building a personal coaching philosophy. Her emphasis on character, communication, and generational awareness helped participants reflect on the legacy they wish to leave behind.

• Lilly Vanek, a registered dietitian and certified sports nutritionist, presented a thorough guide to fueling athletes for success. From hydration tips to supplement safety, Lilly emphasized practical, sustainable nutrition strategies that female coaches can immediately implement with their teams.

• Jen Durant, with a background in naval aviation and consulting, encouraged participants to be the “architects of their lives.” She led discussions that challenged conventional wisdom about success, introduced systems for personal growth, and emphasized building supportive communities.

• Jen Baker, Director of Athletics at Johns Hopkins University and former U.S. Navy pilot, shared her unconventional path from military service to athletics administration. Her story highlighted the importance of pivoting, embracing leadership roles in sports, and empowering young athletes through coaching and mentorship.

• Marilla Cushman, retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, represented the Military Women’s Memorial, reminding participants of the historical significance of their service. Her call to get involved in preserving and celebrating military women’s contributions was deeply impactful.

Real Conversations, Real Growth

The seminar created a safe, collaborative environment where hard conversations took place—about leading in male-dominated spaces, about empathy and emotional fatigue, and about the struggle of balancing service and self-care. Participants supported each other in breakout rooms and live chats, strengthening the very community they were building.

One such conversation, led by participants like Nancy, tackled the challenge of earning respect in traditionally male environments. Her story of overcoming initial resistance from subordinates through professionalism and influence was hailed as a prime example of coaching through character.

A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Thank you to the Wounded Warrior Project for your unwavering commitment to holistic veteran wellness, and to Wells Fargo for championing military leadership development and supporting pathways into coaching careers.

The Journey Doesn’t End Here

Certification is just the beginning. Graduates are invited to join the STS Journey—an advanced professional development track offering access to coaching jobs, mentorship, continued education, and ambassador opportunities. The community doesn’t end with the seminar—it evolves, grows, and continues to empower.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Military Women’s Coaching Certification Seminar was more than an educational event—it was a celebration of identity, leadership, and the enduring power of service. From aviation hangars to weight rooms and from battlefields to playing fields, these women are ready to lead the next generation of athletes with strength, heart, and authenticity.

The future of coaching is bright—and it’s wearing camouflage, coaching polos, and red whistles.

The post Empowering the Next Generation of Coaches: Recapping the 2025 Soldiers To Sidelines Military Women’s Coaching Certification Seminar appeared first on Soldiers To Sidelines.

A Grateful Acknowledgment to National University

National University deserves our heartfelt gratitude for powering this seminar. Their unwavering commitment to supporting military members and veterans through educational opportunities ensures that our soldier coaches are well-prepared for their roles both on and off the field. Leo Dameron from National University eloquently highlighted these opportunities during the seminar, reinforcing the university’s dedication to our heroes. Thank you, National University, for making this event possible and for your continuous support of Soldiers To Sidelines.

An All-Star Lineup of Guest Presenters

The seminar featured an impressive array of guest presenters, each bringing unique insights and expertise to the sessions. These distinguished speakers shared their knowledge, strategies, and personal experiences to inspire and educate the participants:

1. Bill Tierney, a celebrated veteran coach and US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee who won 7 National Championships, delivered a keynote address emphasizing humility, honesty, and respect in coaching. His insights into fostering a positive team culture left a lasting impression.

1. Scott Urich, STS Director of Lacrosse, provided a comprehensive overview of the sport, discussing essential techniques, offensive strategies, and the importance of efficient ball movement.

1. John Uberti, U.S. Army Major General (Ret.) and seasoned coach, delved into the nuances of lacrosse rules and officiating. His discussions on slashing, warding off, and penalty clarifications enriched participants’ understanding of the game’s structure.

1. Kevin Cassese, UVA Associate Head Coach, shared his expertise on drills and the University of Virginia’s lacrosse model, emphasizing the importance of game-like practice situations and strategic adaptability.

1. J.L. Reppert, Head Coach at the College of the Holy Cross, introduced innovative drills and strategies, including the OODA loop methodology, to enhance offensive and defensive skills.

1. Ryan Wellner, Notre Dame’s Defensive Coordinator, provided an in-depth look at defensive strategies, communication, and adaptability, offering practical drills to improve team performance.

1. Scott Rodgers, IMG Academy Goalies Director, discussed key strategies, drills, and mindset teaching to develop goalies to their highest potential.

1. Joe Alberici, Head Coach at West Point, reflected on the impact of coaching, sharing his insights on practice planning, implementation, and fostering player development.

1. Will Corrigan, U.S. Air Force Academy Face Off Coach despite travel challenges, contributed through a recorded session on face-off techniques, underlining the significance of reaction time, toughness, and overall player versatility.

A Comprehensive Seminar Experience

Inspiration and Leadership

Harrison Bernstein, Founder of Soldiers To Sidelines, led thought-provoking discussions on the hierarchy of coaching, highlighting the power of inspiration and the differences between coaching and leadership. Using examples from sports history and movies, he demonstrated how to find a team’s “why” and motivate players toward seemingly impossible goals.

Techniques and Biomechanics

The importance of biomechanics was a recurring theme, with Harrison and other presenters addressing sprinting mechanics, agility, and drills. Participants learned how to apply principles of motion to improve player performance, with a focus on understanding the center of gravity and body positioning.

Offense, Defense, and Strategy

Sessions led by Scott Urich and Ryan Wellner provided participants with a solid foundation in offensive and defensive strategies. From efficient ball movement to defensive communication and adaptability, these sessions were packed with actionable insights that coaches can implement with their teams.

Rules and Officiating

John Uberti’s detailed discussions on the rules of lacrosse were invaluable, especially for those new to the sport. His explanations of evolving rules and enforcement techniques equipped participants to interact more effectively with referees.

Drills and Practical Application

Kevin Cassese and J.L. Reppert shared innovative drills to enhance player skills and game readiness. These included small-sided games, transition drills, and techniques to develop off-ball movement and awareness.

Building a Coaching Community

The seminar was not just about learning; it was about building a community of soldier coaches who support and inspire one another. Harrison’s emphasis on engagement and collaboration encouraged participants to share their experiences and perspectives, fostering a sense of camaraderie that will extend beyond the seminar.

A Lasting Impact

The Soldiers To Sidelines Virtual Lacrosse Coaching Certification Seminar was a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and community. Thanks to the support of National University and the expertise of our guest presenters, soldier coaches are now better equipped to inspire, lead, and succeed in their roles.

To our presenters, participants, and supporters: thank you for making this seminar a resounding success. Together, we are not only shaping better coaches but also building stronger communities through the transformative power of sports. Here’s to the next chapter of Soldiers To Sidelines and the incredible impact of our Soldier Coaches.

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Day 1: Foundations of Coaching and Leadership 

The seminar kicked off with Harrison Bernstein, founder and executive director of STS, who introduced the program’s mission: to empower veterans to transition into coaching roles while enriching their communities. Bernstein was joined by key team members Alyssa Allen (Community Engagement Manager), Carl Little (Operations Director), and Coach Jerod Kruse (Football Director), who provided logistical and technical support throughout the seminar.

The session kicked off with Jesse Linder, Vice President for Community Relations at the New York Jets. Linder shared the Jets’ dedication to this six-year partnership with STS, emphasizing the importance of fostering community ties and providing opportunities for military veterans.

Veteran NFL coach Al Saunders, with 50 years of professional experience, joined the discussion to share his wisdom on teaching techniques and building relationships with players. Coach Saunders served as the head coach for the Sandiego Chargers, Offensive Coordinator for Kansas City Chiefs, Washington Redskins, St Louis Rams, and Oakland Raiders. He also served as  Senior offensive Assistant for the Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins, and Cleveland Browns. Saunders offered participants ongoing mentorship and recounted personal anecdotes that resonated with both new and seasoned coaches.

Another highlight of the first day was the introduction of the Inverted Pyramid of Coaching Success, a model that places people and relationships above play strategies. Participants were encouraged to reflect on their personal “why” and explore the interplay between leadership, management, and coaching.

The evening concluded with a theoretical perspective of Football strategy based on concepts of Space, Numbers, and Time, led by Coach Jerod Kruse.

Day 2: Tactical Coaching Tools and Defensive Strategies 

Day two explored advanced tools and strategies for modern coaching. John Mumford introduced the Go Army Edge app, a revolutionary teaching tool developed by the Army that uses 3D animations and virtual reality to create interactive playbooks. Mumford demonstrated its features, including drawing plays, simulating scenarios, and optimizing communication between coaches and players.

Coach Kruse, former NFL player & seasoned coach Mike Pollak, and Del Smith, dove into defensive and offensive fundamentals, including coverage schemes (Cover 2, Cover 3, and Cover 4), the importance of route concepts, pass protection vs pass rush concepts, and the run game vs. run fits.

Day 3: Lessons from NFL Leaders and Coaching Culture 

Day three was headlined by Joe Douglas, General Manager of the New York Jets. Douglas drew parallels between military service and professional sports, emphasizing adaptability, teamwork, and dedication. He shared personal anecdotes from his extensive career, which included 15 years with the Baltimore Ravens and roles with the Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles. Douglas also provided practical advice on balancing personal and professional responsibilities.

The seminar also welcomed NCAA National Champion Coach, Jim Tressel, who spoke passionately about the power of coaching to shape character and instill values in young athletes. Tressel emphasized the importance of understanding players’ individual needs and fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration.

Following Coach Tressel, Anthony Gulliver, a former Marine, Soldier Coach, and current defensive coach at UCLA, shared his transition from military service to collegiate coaching. Gulliver offered insights into tackling techniques, defensive strategies, and player development. He demonstrated drills like the “peanut punch” and “cheetah tackle” and emphasized the importance of leveraging personal connections for career growth.

Day 4: Advanced Techniques, Self-Reflection, and Effective Coaching

The final day of the seminar encapsulated the art of coaching beyond technical skills, focusing on personal growth, effective communication, and creating positive team environments. It featured practical knowledge and personal insights from esteemed speakers while incorporating thought-provoking discussions on self-awareness and leadership.

Harrison Bernstein provided a transformative session on the importance of self-reflection in coaching. He urged attendees to regularly assess their own beliefs, interests, and conversational styles to enhance their coaching approach. Bernstein highlighted how introspection can help coaches navigate personal challenges, such as PTSD, and foster growth. Using Tom Hanks as an example, he illustrated the power of communication and the ability to evoke emotions, encouraging participants to wield similar influence in their roles as coaches.

Bernstein also led a conversation on the high human skills required for effective coaching, focusing on empathy, sympathy, and compassion. The team explored the concept of discipleship, with Soldier Coaches contributing insights into how teaching players to self-correct their actions strengthens accountability and growth. This discussion extended to the importance of understanding players, their families, and the broader team community to create a supportive environment. Participants concluded this segment by breaking out into sessions to focus on their favorite position groups.

In his final session, Bernstein delved into the importance of planning and adaptability, drawing examples from his experience with a New York Jets workshop. He stressed the need for coaches to create environments that foster positivity through intentional manipulation of space, including lighting, temperature, and music. Bernstein warned of the dangers of exclusive groups or “clicks” within teams, describing them as detrimental to morale and cohesion. He urged attendees to actively shape environments that prioritize inclusion and collective growth.

The Seminar concluded with position break rooms where Soldier Coaches could focus on a specific offensive position and defensive position.  These focused breakouts were led by master football coaches. On the Offensive side we learned from Maurice Allen Soldier Coach and NY Jets Intern,  Bob Wylie, NFL offensive line legend, Greg Seamon, former NFL TE Coach, Aaron Brady, Ursinus College  Assistant Coach, and John Bear, Offensive Coordinator Bucknell University. The Defensive breakouts were led by Jerod Kruse, David Blake, Soldier Coach and Defensive Coordinator Concord University, and Damione Lewis, Defensive Line Coach University of Colorado.

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