Events Archives - Soldiers To Sidelines https://soldierstosidelines.org/category/events/ Advance your potential as a coach! Tue, 26 Nov 2024 20:05:43 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://i0.wp.com/soldierstosidelines.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/STS_enhanced-logo-1-black-circle.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Events Archives - Soldiers To Sidelines https://soldierstosidelines.org/category/events/ 32 32 185925955 A Weekend to Remember: Soldiers To Sidelines Football Coaching Workshop and Youth Football Clinic with the New York Jets Salute to Service https://soldierstosidelines.org/coaching-workshop/a-weekend-to-remember-soldiers-to-sidelines-football-coaching-workshop-and-youth-football-clinic-with-the-new-york-jets-salute-to-service/ Tue, 26 Nov 2024 20:05:31 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=4624 MetLife Stadium served as the vibrant epicenter of camaraderie, learning, and inspiration as the New York Jets hosted the Soldiers To Sidelines (STS) Football Coaching Workshop and Youth Football Clinic for Salute to Service. This event, powered by Ticketmaster, brought together veterans, aspiring football coaches, and youth athletes for a weekend of empowerment and growth. […]

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MetLife Stadium served as the vibrant epicenter of camaraderie, learning, and inspiration as the New York Jets hosted the Soldiers To Sidelines (STS) Football Coaching Workshop and Youth Football Clinic for Salute to Service. This event, powered by Ticketmaster, brought together veterans, aspiring football coaches, and youth athletes for a weekend of empowerment and growth.

Day 1: Building Community

The weekend began with a warm welcome at the Courtyard Lyndhurst Meadowlands Hotel, where participants gathered to meet the STS team, fellow veteran coaches, and support staff. The evening fostered connections among participants, each bringing unique experiences from military service and budding coaching careers. Introductions were followed by technical setups for tools like the Jets app and Go Army Edge, setting the tone for the weekend’s focus on professional and personal development.

Day 2: Insightful Sessions and Field Action

Saturday unfolded with a mix of inspiration and hands-on activities. Following a welcome address at MetLife Stadium, Tony Richardson, a Jets legend, engaged the group in a Q&A session moderated by STS Founder Harrison Bernstein that spotlighted leadership and teamwork principles. A tour of the Jets’ locker room surprised the Soldier Coaches when they realized each locker was decorated with their own name plate and filled with Jets Salute To Service gear for their keeping. The heart of the day was the Coaches Workshop. Soldier Coaches and STS staff shared their insights on leadership, strategy, and the technical aspects of football coaching. Attendees honed their skills with practical applications, drill design, and discussing scenarios during a working lunch. The collaborative energy was palpable as coaches shared stories, ideas, and aspirations.

Later, the free Youth Football Clinic on the iconic MetLife Stadium field brought these lessons to life. Soldier Coaches guided young athletes through drills, emphasizing skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. For the youth, this was more than just a clinic—it was an opportunity to learn from role models who had served their country and now served their community through sport.

Day 3: Saluting Service Through the Game

Sunday began with a reflective morning session, where participants practiced using tools like Go Army Edge to refine their play drawing ability. The STS Tailgate at MetLife Stadium was a festive gathering, bringing together the extended STS family with food, camaraderie, and gratitude. The highlight was watching the Jets game as a group, a shared experience that capped a weekend of bonding and inspiration.

A Lasting Impact

Throughout the event, participants expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. Testimonials poured in, reflecting the weekend’s transformative power. From Jason Lewey’s gratitude for the excellent coaching community to James Hurley’s moving words about the event transcending football, it was clear this workshop left a lasting impression.

The Soldiers To Sidelines Football Coaching Workshop and Youth Football Clinic epitomized the mission to empower veterans through coaching, turning their leadership into a force for community development. Thanks to the New York Jets, Ticketmaster, and STS staff, this Salute to Service weekend was a resounding success, embodying the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and service. Until next time, these soldier-coaches will carry the lessons learned onto fields and into lives across the nation.

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Hands-On Coaching Experience in Colorado Springs https://soldierstosidelines.org/events/hands-on-coaching-experience-in-colorado-springs/ Thu, 10 Oct 2024 19:28:29 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=4397 Soldiers To Sidelines (STS) returned to Colorado Springs for its 3rd consecutive year of delivering a Strength & Conditioning Workshop for the military community. Wounded Warrior Project powered the event, while the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) hosted it within the training center at its international headquarters. 15 Soldier Coaches attended the event while […]

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Soldiers To Sidelines (STS) returned to Colorado Springs for its 3rd consecutive year of delivering a Strength & Conditioning Workshop for the military community. Wounded Warrior Project powered the event, while the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) hosted it within the training center at its international headquarters. 15 Soldier Coaches attended the event while Executive Director Harrison Bernstein and Endurance Director Nate Palin led the workshop.

The day began with attendee introductions and opening remarks from James Herrera, Vice President of Physical Health and Wellness for Wounded Warrior Project. Coach Herrera shared his longstanding passion for coaching and supporting the military community. The workshop’s opening segued into a presentation on the “Inverted Pyramid of Coaching Success,” a philosophical framework for the character-based approach to coaching that Soldiers To Sidelines instills in its community of Soldier Coaches.

After the initial presentation, the workshop transitioned into the weight room, where instructors emphasized the importance of understanding the influence of movement patterns, intensity, volume, and rest when selecting exercises with the intent of achieving specific physical adaptations. The instruction was conversational and experiential, including input from the attendees to ensure content relevance.

Strength and Conditioning Workshop

The afternoon was primarily hands-on coaching with an emphasis on communication and cueing to achieve a safe and effective training execution. Soldier Coaches taught their peers how to perform the squat and bench press while receiving and implementing feedback regarding their embodiment of effective coaching. Command presence, concise instruction, precise demonstration, and appropriate exercise adjustments were all points of emphasis as Soldier Coaches took turns honing their coaching craft.

Thank you to Wounded Warrior Project, the NSCA, and, most importantly, the attending Soldier Coaches for your efforts in making this workshop a successful event. STS looks forward to returning to Colorado Springs in the fall of 2025.

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Empowering Soldiers to Lead: A Transformative Basketball Coaching Workshop at Manhattan University https://soldierstosidelines.org/events/empowering-soldiers-to-lead-a-transformative-basketball-coaching-workshop-at-manhattan-university/ Wed, 25 Sep 2024 15:39:27 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=4288 This past week, Soldiers To Sidelines hosted an exceptional basketball coaching workshop at Manhattan University, a landmark event dedicated to helping military veterans transition into coaching careers. The workshop, designed to empower soldiers by providing them with the tools and knowledge to lead in the world of sports, was more than just an educational experience—it […]

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This past week, Soldiers To Sidelines hosted an exceptional basketball coaching workshop at Manhattan University, a landmark event dedicated to helping military veterans transition into coaching careers. The workshop, designed to empower soldiers by providing them with the tools and knowledge to lead in the world of sports, was more than just an educational experience—it was a celebration of camaraderie, leadership, and the enduring bond between service and sport.

The event kicked off with a Coaches Social at the Bronx Ale House in New York City. This gathering brought together a diverse group of attendees, including soldier coaches, friends of Soldiers to Sidelines, and members of the Manhattan Men’s Basketball coaching staff. The atmosphere was one of fellowship and joy as everyone enjoyed draft beers, wings, sliders, and quesadillas while bonding over shared experiences and a mutual love for basketball.

The next morning, the action moved to Draddy Gymnasium at Manhattan University, where the participants were greeted with coffee, doughnuts, and an opportunity to share their incredible military stories. These narratives set the stage for a day filled with learning and inspiration. Harrison Bernstein, the Founder and Executive Director of Soldiers To Sidelines, opened the session with a discussion on coaching and leadership, laying a strong foundation for the day’s activities.

Manhattan Basketball Workshop

Following Bernstein’s introduction, Coach John Gallagher, the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Manhattan University, took the floor to share his coaching philosophy. Coach Gallagher’s session was a deep dive into the intricacies of building a Division One basketball program from the ground up. Speaking from a place of vulnerability, he shared both his successes and the lessons learned throughout his career, offering invaluable insights that resonated deeply with the soldier coaches in attendance.

The interactive nature of the workshop was further highlighted when Coach Gallagher opened the floor for questions. This lively discussion continued into lunch, fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge and experiences were freely exchanged.
One of the workshop’s most anticipated moments came in the afternoon when participants were granted courtside seats to observe an intimate basketball practice led by Coach Gallagher and his staff. This rare opportunity allowed the soldier coaches to witness firsthand the strategies and dynamics involved in running a successful basketball program. The practice session concluded with an open after-action review, where the attending soldier coaches could ask detailed questions about what they observed, gaining key takeaways that would be instrumental in their future coaching endeavors.

Manhattan Basketball Workshop on court

This incredible event was made possible through the generous support of the David and Karen Pecker Foundation, whose commitment to the military community continues to enable veterans to serve their country in new and impactful ways—as coaches. The Soldiers To Sidelines Basketball Coaching Workshop at Manhattan University was not just about learning the Xs and Os of basketball; it was about harnessing the leadership skills honed in military service and applying them to the world of sports. It was a day that highlighted the unique strengths soldiers bring to coaching and how, through initiatives like this, they continue to lead and inspire, both on and off the court.

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Soldiers To Sidelines Basketball Coaching Certification Seminar 2024: Cultivating Leaders On and Off the Court https://soldierstosidelines.org/blog/soldiers-to-sidelines-basketball-coaching-certification-seminar-2024-cultivating-leaders-on-and-off-the-court/ Thu, 19 Sep 2024 16:37:51 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=4274 The Soldiers To Sidelines Basketball Coaching Certification Seminar offered a unique opportunity for veterans, service members, and military spouses to transition their leadership skills from the battlefield to the basketball court. This week-long seminar, powered in part by the Wounded Warrior Project and guided by some of the sport’s most respected coaches and leaders, focused not […]

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The Soldiers To Sidelines Basketball Coaching Certification Seminar offered a unique opportunity for veterans, service members, and military spouses to transition their leadership skills from the battlefield to the basketball court. This week-long seminar, powered in part by the Wounded Warrior Project and guided by some of the sport’s most respected coaches and leaders, focused not just on the technicalities of basketball but also on the development of leadership, discipline, and teamwork—qualities deeply embedded in military training.

Day 1: The Foundations of Coaching

Harrison Bernstein, founder of Soldiers To Sidelines, opened the seminar with an inspiring welcome, setting the tone for a week of growth and learning. He introduced key members of the team, including STS Basketball Director/Athletic Director Leigh Klein and guest coach Tom Crean. Coach Crean was the former head men’s Basketball Coach at Marquette, Indiana, and Georgia and currently serves as an ESPN analyst. He shared invaluable lessons on personal discipline, mental toughness, and problem-solving—traits essential both on the court and in life.

Crean’s session emphasized the importance of selflessness, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt to the unexpected—skills honed in military service and essential in coaching. He highlighted that coaching is more than just leading; it’s about helping others succeed. His insights on the overlap between military leadership and coaching resonated deeply, offering a solid foundation for the seminar’s participants.

To finish day 1 of the seminar, Leigh Klein and Assistant Basketball Coach at Prairie View A&M, Todd Shelton, presented a unifying theory of basketball based on space, numbers, and time. They demonstrated the practical application of this theory by emphasizing the significance of different spots on the floor and coordinating actions. The team also discussed various basketball strategies, including the Circle Motion, 2 Out, Draft Drives, X Cut, Triple Side, and Double Side concepts.

Day 2: Player Development, Coaching with Purpose, and Offensive Systems

Day two featured US Virgin Islands National Team Head Coach Edniesha Curry, who shifted the focus toward player development. Coach Curry stressed that successful coaching goes beyond tactics; it involves nurturing the mental and physical growth of players. Her session focused on creating environments that foster leadership, emphasizing the importance of catering to the individual needs of young athletes. By connecting deeply with their players, coaches can inspire greatness not just in sports but in life.

Chris Oliver, CEO of Basketball Immersion, concluded the evening discussing offensive systems with emphasis on the importance of creating a learning environment in basketball, focusing on team behaviors, basketball decisions, and fostering psychological safety and confidence among players. He discussed the significance of changing shapes, creating advantages in offense, and decision-making in basketball. Chris also introduced the principles of play, with space being the primary focus, and encouraged players to understand these principles to make better decisions on the court. He discussed the concept of ‘advantage’ in basketball, the importance of shot selection, and the need to recognize and seize opportunities as they arise. Coach Oliver also introduced the concept of “neutral” in basketball, the importance of breaking down basketball into trios and duets, and the need for players to be active and avoid becoming passive.

Day 3: The Power of Defense, Film Breakdown, and Military Transition to Coaching

Defense became the central theme on the third day, with Coach Billy Donovan, Associate Head Coach of Clemson University, taking the reins. He underscored the significance of a strong defensive system, discipline, and determination. Donovan’s approach to defense was not just about stopping the opponent but creating an uncomfortable environment for them. He introduced practical drills to help coaches train players to excel defensively, advocating for consistency and charting progress through metrics like defensive stops and contested shots.

Donovan’s advice on creating a defense-first mindset, coupled with strategies to motivate players through film study and detailed scouting, was invaluable for those looking to implement a structured and disciplined defense in their coaching practices.

Soldier Coach and Assistant Coach at Mary Hardin Baylor University, Uriah Hunter shared his coaching experiences in South Korea and Fort Hood, emphasizing the importance of community involvement, scrimmaging, and skill development. He also discussed his coaching philosophy and the use of a possession chart to assess team performance. The group discussed the applicability of these strategies for younger players and the challenges of transitioning into coaching roles. Coach Hunter highlighted the importance of passion, dedication, and networking in coaching and the need for a supportive network like Soldiers To Sidelines.

To close out day 3 of the seminar, Cam Miller, Director of Operation for Xavier University Men’s Basketball, discussed their coaching strategies, focusing on individual attention and film analysis. Cam explained the use of individual and team film sessions for providing feedback and scouting. He also discussed the use of visual aids like storyboards to help players understand complex concepts.

Day 4: Offense Strategies and the Dribble Drive System

The seminar’s fourth session dived deep into offensive strategies, particularly the dribble drive motion offense. Jessica Mannetti, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Sacred Heart University, broke down the intricate details of this offensive approach, focusing on spacing, movement, and creating advantages. The session was filled with practical demonstrations, showing how to exploit mismatches and use the “drag zone” effectively to create scoring opportunities. Jessica also covered advanced offensive concepts such as the “rack,” “blur,” and “through cut,” equipping the participants with modern strategies to outwit opponents. Her detailed explanations allowed the attendees to visualize how these plays could be executed in real-game scenarios.

Following Coach Mannetti, Howard University Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Kenny Blakeney, presented offensive sets. Coach Blakeney discussed his journey as a coach, emphasizing the importance of establishing a strong culture and values, focusing on player development, and using data analytics to understand player strengths and weaknesses. He highlighted the team’s success in 3-point shooting and the concept of “energy-generating behaviors” as a key factor in their culture and success. Kenny also discussed the culture of grassroots basketball, emphasizing the importance of competition and winning and the need to improve the team’s style of play. He stressed the importance of quick transitions, efficient ball movement, unselfish passing, cutting to steal baskets, and paint touches to get shooters wide open shots.

The final session featured basketball Hall of Famer Lon Krueger, who discussed the importance of building a positive and transparent coaching culture. Coach Krueger stressed that players thrive in environments where they feel supported, understood, and motivated. He emphasized the importance of clear communication and shared ownership of success, drawing on his vast experience in coaching teams at various levels.

Krueger also touched on managing conflicts within teams and how to balance individual player development with team goals. His message was clear: fostering a culture of positivity and patience can lead to lasting success, both for the team and for the individual players.

Key Takeaways from the Seminar

The Soldiers To Sidelines Basketball Coaching Certification Seminar was a transformative experience for all who attended. Participants left with a deeper understanding of not only basketball tactics but also the essential qualities of leadership, communication, and personal development.

Some key takeaways included:

  • The Importance of Selflessness in Coaching: Just as in military leadership, coaching is about serving others, helping players grow, and fostering a team-first mentality.
  • Player Development Beyond Skills: Coaches need to focus on the holistic development of players, nurturing both their physical talents and mental fortitude.
  • Building a Strong Defensive Foundation: A disciplined and well-structured defense can be the cornerstone of any successful team.
  • Offensive Adaptability: Understanding how to create and exploit offensive opportunities is crucial, with the dribble drive motion offense being a highly effective strategy.
  • Fostering a Positive Team Culture: Success stems from creating an environment where players feel empowered, motivated, and engaged.

Conclusion: A New Path Forward

The Soldiers To Sidelines Basketball Coaching Certification Seminar, powered in part by the Wounded Warrior Project, proved that military service members and their families possess the discipline, leadership, and resilience to become outstanding basketball coaches. By translating these skills to the court, they are not only helping to shape future athletes but are also continuing their service to their communities. The lessons learned during this seminar—discipline, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—will undoubtedly influence the participants long after they leave the basketball court.

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STS Soccer Coaching Certification Seminar Scores Big Again! https://soldierstosidelines.org/blog/sts-soccer-coaching-certification-seminar-scores-big-again/ Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:58:42 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=4089 GOOOOAAAAALLLL! STS Soccer Coaching Certification Seminar Scores Big Again! Congratulations to all the service members, Veterans, milspouses, and Gold Star families who certified as Soccer Soldier Coach in June 2024.  There were over 150 attendees from all over the world.  One dedicated participant logged in every day from Quatar! However, it is worth getting on […]

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GOOOOAAAAALLLL! STS Soccer Coaching Certification Seminar Scores Big Again!

Congratulations to all the service members, Veterans, milspouses, and Gold Star families who certified as Soccer Soldier Coach in June 2024.  There were over 150 attendees from all over the world.  One dedicated participant logged in every day from Quatar! However, it is worth getting on the computer at 4 AM to learn from the stellar line up of guest soccer coaches who contributed to the seminar. STS Soccer Director, Dr. Ben Freakley, was instrumental in creating the curriculum and establishing the lineup. His experience in sports psychology and professional sports provided a high level of mastery from a simple approach.

We opened the 12-hr. certification seminar with an interactive discussion with former U.S. Men’s National Team Captain, Carlos Bocanegra. Currently Carlos serves a Vice President of the Atlanta United.  He discussed how military service can be impactful in soccer coaching, and then fielded questions from the audience.

As usual, STS Founder and Executive Director, Harrison Bernstein, covered the essentials of high human skills for coaching success. “It is always amazing to see how seamless the synergies between the content of the guest coaches compliments the core high human skills of STS,” says Bernstein.

Marcie Schwartz, U.S. Club Soccer Education and Development Specialist taught all about Systems of Play which highlighted many aspects of long-term athletic development. Then later in the week, we heard from Interim Head Soccer Coach of Atlanta United MLS, Rob Valentino.  He discussed coaching philosophy and helped answer the concerns of all the Soldier Coaches.  Following Coach Valentino, Troy Lesesne Head Coach of DC United MLS discussed principle of defense and attack. It is rare to have direct access to two MLS Head Coaches in a two-hour time frame.

We could not forget about important role of goal tending.  Phil Boerger, Goalkeeper Coach of the Columbus Crew 2, gave us a masterclass in developing goal keepers.

The last evening ended with a bang. Karlie Paschall-Young, Head of Developmental Performance for Atlanta United, went into great detail about the physical considerations in soccer. Her easily digestible and practical methods for optimizing soccer performance was a fan favorite. Ian Barker, a 12-yr. soccer coach at Macalester College and current Coach Educator Developer for U.S. Soccer Federation, taught us the ins-and-outs of practice design.

The seminar was a huge success. It was our biggest and best soccer coaching seminar to date thanks to our generous sponsor PWC through their Reimagine Grant. PWC recognizes the transformative role coaches have in our communities.  PWC also recognizes that coaching in the community provides tremendous purpose and fulfillment for our Veterans who were born to lead.

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Soldier Coaches Inspire Inner City Chicago High School Football Teams with a Free Football Skills Clinic https://soldierstosidelines.org/blog/soldier-coaches-inspire-inner-city-chicago-high-school-football-teams-with-a-free-football-skills-clinic/ Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:53:24 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=4086 Soldier Coaches Inspire Inner City Chicago High School Football Teams with a Free Football Skills Clinic On July 11th and 12th Soldiers To Sidelines hosted a football coaching workshop for ten select Soldier Coaches to provide free football skills clinics for the community. Everything was free for Soldier Coaches and free for the lucky high […]

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Soldier Coaches Inspire Inner City Chicago High School Football Teams with a Free Football Skills Clinic

On July 11th and 12th Soldiers To Sidelines hosted a football coaching workshop for ten select Soldier Coaches to provide free football skills clinics for the community. Everything was free for Soldier Coaches and free for the lucky high school football players at Orr Academy High School, Michelle Clark High School, Corliss High School, and North Chicago High School in Chicago, IL. The generous support from The Randy Walker Legacy Foundation and the Botsford Family made this incredible experience possible for 96 inner-city kids and 10 Soldier Coaches.

The event began at noon July 11th at the original Halas Hall on the Lake Forest College campus. In the football offices where the 1980s Chicago Bears held football camp, Coach Jerod Kruse and Harrison Bernstein guided ten Soldier Coaches through an intensive curriculum on how-to set-up, organize, and coach a free football clinic for the community. Then on July 12th, we coached 96 Chicago football players on football fundamentals. The kids experienced an action-packed fun-filled event, and everyone went home with a free T-shirt.

The Chicago U.S. Army recruiting command enhanced the event with several fitness stations including deadlift, pullups, and bench press. Twenty U.S. Army soldiers led the kids through a galvanizing team-building relay to conclude the event.  The presence of the Army recruiters exposed the players to all the incredible benefits of military service. During rest periods several soldiers explained how military service helps young athletes be all they can be. The kids learned that through military service they can earn the GI Bill which will pay for college and provide opportunities to play college football in lieu of getting a scholarship.

STS Football Director and former NFL and D1 NCAA Coach, Jerod Kruse said, “This was one of the best organized and effective clinics I have seen in all my years coaching football.” He was thrilled by the focus and attention of the Soldier Coaches in preparation to deliver this event.  “The characteristics of organization, planning, teamwork, courage, and resilience are inherent in our Soldier Coaches from their military experience which shined through during the clinic,” exclaimed Harrison Bernstein, STS Founder and Executive Director.

The Soldiers To Sidelines Coach-the-Coach Workshop and Skills Clinic program solves four serious issues facing our country. First, it provides a renewed sense of purpose and opportunity for Veterans to thrive in the community. Second, our Soldier Coaches fill the massive shortage of quality sports coaches in our country. Third, the presence of Soldier Coaches in the community bridges the civilian-military divide. And fourth, the positive impact of our soldier coaches may influence some young athletes to serve in the military ensuring the future of the all-volunteer force.

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May 2024 Virtual Football Coaching Certification Successes https://soldierstosidelines.org/events/may-2024-virtual-football-coaching-certification-successes/ Fri, 31 May 2024 13:00:11 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=4025 May 2024’s Virtual Football Coaching Certification an Incredible Success for STS Soldier Coaches. More than 140 current and prospective Soldier Coaches took part in the Soldiers To Sidelines Virtual Football Coaching Certification Seminar 20 – 23 May 2024. STS football director Jerod Kruse noted, ‘STS attracted presenters from the highest levels of football, with eight […]

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May 2024’s Virtual Football Coaching Certification an Incredible Success for STS Soldier Coaches.

More than 140 current and prospective Soldier Coaches took part in the Soldiers To Sidelines Virtual Football Coaching Certification Seminar 20 – 23 May 2024. STS football director Jerod Kruse noted, ‘STS attracted presenters from the highest levels of football, with eight current or former NFL coaches and seven current or former college coaches (with five of the presenters being military veterans) adding their wisdom to the event.’

On the first day, Soldier Coach Curt Kline shared an inspiring story about his journey from becoming a certified Soldier Coach to earning a coaching internship with the Georgetown University football team. After Coach Kline’s inspiration, the class learned about the power of inspiration and motivation to create a long-lasting impact on those we coach. Coach Kruse concluded the evening by explaining the theoretical components of football schematics.

On day two, Jason Houghtaling, assistant offensive line coach for the Chicago Bears, talked about pass-pro and rush concepts. Eric Sanders, Eastern Washington University’s defensive coordinator, discussed running games and fits. Day three brought an energizing conversation with Harrison Bernstein about the role of CARE in effective coaching. Coach Jerod Kruse talked about tackling, and John Mumford from HigherEchelon delivered an eye-opening tutorial on Go Army Edge, a free playbook creation app that brings football drawings to 3D animation.

Day three kicked off with an opportunity for the class to ‘Ask the Coach’ any question about football coaching and military service with NFL Denver Broncos Special Teams Coordinator Ben Kotwica. Coach Kotwica played football at West Point, served eight years in the U.S. Army, and then began his coaching career at West Point Prep. Next, the class attended breakout rooms by position. Coaches Josh Buford (Kansas State University), Bob Wylie (Cleveland Browns), Breylon Roberts (Bucknell University), Derrick Foster (New Orleans Saints), and Andrew Workman (West Virginia State University) covered principles and techniques for offensive positions. Later, Mo Banks (Gettysburg College), Anthony Goliver (UCLA), and Blake Williams (a former NFL coach) led breakout rooms featuring defensive positions.

Participants were quick to share their impressions of the virtual seminar. “It was really impressive to see the turnout of over 130 coaches and the way they interacted with each other and the presenters over the four-day event,” said one Soldier Coach. Another said, “This being my first experience with the football seminar from start to finish, I continued to be moved by the attention to detail of STS and the quality of curriculum that is provided.”

We’re taking to heart the high praise and one suggestion made by Phyllis Tompkins: “Your organization supports veterans by offering them opportunities to become coaches, which I find incredibly impactful. It offers valuable resources and training for veterans transitioning into civilian life, addressing a critical need. By promoting community engagement and mentorship through coaching, Soldiers to Sidelines positively affects veterans and local youth. However, the organization could benefit from increased awareness and resources to maximize its impact.”

Thanks to all involved, the event ran very smoothly from start to finish.

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Soldiers To Sidelines, Wounded Warrior Project, and Georgetown University Continue to Develop Post-9/11 Veterans to Serve Our Country as a Coach https://soldierstosidelines.org/events/soldiers-to-sidelines-wounded-warrior-project-and-georgetown-university-continue-to-develop-post-9-11-veterans-to-serve-our-country-as-a-coach/ Wed, 22 May 2024 13:30:59 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=4008 On Saturday, May 11, 2024, Soldiers To Sidelines delivered another fantastic Football Coaching Workshop powered in part by the Wounded Warrior Project at Georgetown University. Georgetown University Football rolled out the red carpet for Soldiers To Sidelines and the local military community to improve football coaching impact. Georgetown University Head Football Coach, Rob Sgarlata, welcomed this […]

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On Saturday, May 11, 2024, Soldiers To Sidelines delivered another fantastic Football Coaching Workshop powered in part by the Wounded Warrior Project at Georgetown University. Georgetown University Football rolled out the red carpet for Soldiers To Sidelines and the local military community to improve football coaching impact.

Georgetown University Head Football Coach, Rob Sgarlata, welcomed this tight class of 24 Veterans, Active Duty, and military spouses with an authentic and candid insight into the power of coaching football. He gave the group a tour of the beautiful facilities for a look at how football programs operate at the D1AA collegiate level.

Georgetown_Football_Workshop

The morning continued with a guided discussion about coaching and leadership led by Soldiers To Sidelines founder and Executive Director Harrison Bernstein. “The class was extremely engaging and brought incredible insights from their past experiences in military service and sports participation,” says Harrison.

After lunch, STS Football Director, Jerod Kruse, blew everyone’s mind about coaching the eyes of football players to see the little things that yield tremendous competitive advantage. Coach Kruse said, “Eyes are the key to understanding football, and I feel confident that these Soldier Coaches have a deeper understanding of football. It was an honor to work with this group of positive leaders.”

Georgetown_Football_Workshop

Following Coach Kruse, Soldier Coach Curt Kline took the podium to present Georgetown Football’s approach to running Inside Zone.  Coach Kline certified through STS after decades of service in the U.S. Navy, completed our continuing education program, and then earned a coaching internship at Georgetown. This was his first opportunity to present to his peers, which is an invaluable growth opportunity. It was a perfect example for the class to experience what lies ahead for them within STS.

Georgetown_Football_Workshop

The workshop culminated with Coach Kruse discussing middle-of-the-field open and closed run fits. His reductionist approach ensured everyone firmly grasped the concepts of run defense from a space, numbers, and time perspective. With the generous support from our partners like the Wounded Warrior Project and individual donors, this workshop was a massive success!

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Sports Performance Seminar Recap https://soldierstosidelines.org/events/sports-performance-seminar-recap/ Thu, 16 May 2024 18:59:52 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=3992 Sports Performance Seminar Recap The Power Sports Performance Coaching Certification Seminar took place April 22–25, 2024. Sponsored by the Wounded Warrior Project, the seminar’s keynote speaker was Martin Rooney, founder of Training for Warriors. STS Sports Performance Director Johannah Zabal said, “We had one of the largest classes, second only to the Women’s Coaching Certification […]

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Sports Performance Seminar Recap

The Power Sports Performance Coaching Certification Seminar took place April 22–25, 2024. Sponsored by the Wounded Warrior Project, the seminar’s keynote speaker was Martin Rooney, founder of Training for Warriors. STS Sports Performance Director Johannah Zabal said, “We had one of the largest classes, second only to the Women’s Coaching Certification Seminar.” By the numbers, 120 newly certified Soldier Coaches joined the ranks of Soldiers To Sidelines.
One of the most educationally dense seminars that STS offers, the Power Sports Performance Seminar kicked off with coaching education content, then rolled right into the science of strength and conditioning. Participants were challenged to lock in for an information-packed week. This included topics on strength training, energy system development, recovery, sleep & programming.

Attendees spent a large portion of time in breakout rooms, getting to know their fellow veterans and service members while collaborating on programming for a team of their choice. All of this was made possible by Teambuilder, who allowed the students to use their online programming platform to build out programs for their athletes and teams.

Coach Martin Rooney implored the participants, during such a long and in-depth week, to “Keep punching!” He provided five keys to gaining clarity in your purpose. Find where your passion intersects with your purpose & pursue that wholeheartedly! “Clarity of purpose is power!” he said.

Giovani Urrutia, Programming Manager of Education, Tactical, and Sport, EXOS, Energy System Development, gave real-world examples of training all of the energy systems and provided weekly examples of training programs as a guide.  He urged the audience, “Don’t have a stupid story to tell.” Make sure you are intentional with your programming & execution of intelligently planned exercises.

Catherine Wallace, Synergistic Effect, “Recovery & Sleep,” reminded us of the importance of recovery for maximizing training effects. She also acknowledged these practices can be difficult to maintain, but if we know our values, it will be easier to remember why we are practicing these habits in the first place. “Know your barriers… but make sure you have a strategy for when barriers arise,” she said.

Attendee and certified Soldier Coach, Dominic Lewis, shared, “This is my second seminar, and they still exceeded my expectations. As someone who is just entering the world of coaching and personal training, being able to listen to some of the best in the business was truly inspirational. This won’t be the last seminar attended by a long shot.”

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Soldiers To Sidelines Completes First Adaptive Athlete Coaching Workshop https://soldierstosidelines.org/events/soldiers-to-sidelines-completes-first-adaptive-athlete-coaching-workshop/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:17:34 +0000 https://soldierstosidelines.org/?p=3941 Coaching others to be the best version of themselves is one of the most rewarding and noble endeavors.  Coaching adaptive athletes who have recently suffered a damaged or lost limb to actualize their awesome power is an indescribable feeling. Saturday March 16th in Carrollton, TX at the Adaptive Training Foundation Gym, Soldiers To Sidelines conducted […]

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Coaching others to be the best version of themselves is one of the most rewarding and noble endeavors.  Coaching adaptive athletes who have recently suffered a damaged or lost limb to actualize their awesome power is an indescribable feeling.

Saturday March 16th in Carrollton, TX at the Adaptive Training Foundation Gym, Soldiers To Sidelines conducted its first in-person Adaptive Athlete Coaching Workshop powered by Wounded Warrior Project and in partnership with the Adaptive Training Foundation (ATF).

The seven-hour workshop was attended by an intimate group of WWP alumni, Soldier Coaches, and ATF athletes and staff. The workshop explored what it means to be a coach, psychology of working with adaptive athletes, considerations in programming, and culminated with a seated workout which everyone participated.

Everyone left the workshop with greater empathy for adaptive athletes and a stronger knowledge base to begin working with the adaptive community. We learned that everyone requires some adaptation to their training at some point in their athletic life. The reality is we are all working with mixed abilities and we have the power to accomplish anything if we just believe we can and we will.

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