Introduction and Opening Remarks
Harrison Bernstein opened the seminar by underlining the mission and announcing the certification of the 2,000th coach, pointing to the expanding opportunities for veterans in the coaching sector. Bernstein introduced guest speaker Alyssa Clark, a mountain runner and endurance coach, who shared her journey and lessons learned. One of Alyssa’s major accomplishments was running 95 marathons in 95 days. Alyssa’s key takeaway was the importance of separating personal athletic achievements from the coaching role and building a personal brand. Networking, mentorship, and continued learning were also major themes, setting the tone for a seminar focused on both personal and professional growth.

The Essence of Coaching and Motivation
The seminar underscored the need for coaches to understand the motivations and challenges of the athletes they train. Harrison discussed the relationship between motivation, discipline, and success, urging coaches to establish a supportive culture. Nate Palin, the endurance sports director, expanded on this by introducing fundamental endurance theory concepts, such as time, space, and capacity, encouraging participants to rethink and redefine these ideas within their coaching.

In addition, there was an emphasis on the importance of understanding endurance output and metrics. Tracking these metrics helps coaches design training that fosters sustained progress and fosters a mindset of continuous improvement. This session encouraged coaches to balance theory with practical engagement, with Harrison urging participants to stay curious and continuously engage in discussions about the science behind endurance.

Day Two Highlights: Tactical and Mountain Endurance
Major Mauri DiMeo explored the intersection of tactical and mountain endurance. Major DiMeo founded Tactical Alpinism in 2022 with the mission to expand the capability of individuals to go bigger in the mountains by teaching mountain navigation and planning best practices. The purpose of enabling individuals to go bigger in the mountains is to expand the military’s capability in the mountain environment by focusing on expertise of the individual within mountain and arctic units. His session focused on high-skill components and physical demands that are crucial in both domains. Using his personal experiences, including climbing Pikes Peak, Mauri highlighted the need for endurance training that caters to both performance and injury prevention. He suggested that field tests could replace more complex assessments, making training more accessible. Participants learned how endurance could improve lactate clearance, emphasizing the long-term benefits of consistent training.

The conversation shifted to tracking effort and performance, with Mauri suggesting subjective feedback and adaptive training plans tailored to the athlete’s real-time condition. Alex Morrow, creator of MOPs and MOEs, then introduced measures of performance and effectiveness in endurance sports. He stressed the importance of understanding the ‘why’ behind each metric, citing VO2 Max as an example, which should be used to inform training decisions, not as a standalone goal.

Alex continued by emphasizing the positive impact of physical fitness on mental health. Highlighting the relevance of VO2 Max, he underscored that fitness metrics should support quality of life, particularly as athletes age. The discussions emphasized how foundational metrics, such as body fat percentage and VO2 Max, can help track performance trends but shouldn’t overshadow individual athlete goals or personal readiness levels.

Endurance Training and Mental Health
Kat Oswald’s presentation on psychological endurance introduced valuable skills for managing mental stress alongside physical demands. Kat is earning her Ph.D. in Cognition and Instruction to allow her to research optimal programming for cognitive performance, develop a cognitive performance program for the US Space Force, and improve her abilities to teach, coach, and mentor the human performance professionals who serve our nation’s military.  She discussed self-talk and attention management, tools crucial for athletes competing in endurance sports. Kat also offered practical tips for coaches to help athletes stay focused during challenging training sessions, making the case that psychological and physical endurance are intertwined.

Mental Resilience and Energy Management
Jason Clark, a former U.S. Marine who spent nine years serving in billets such as Combat Engineer, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor Trainer, and Drill Instructor, took a personal approach in his presentation. Jason Clark shared life lessons on resilience and adaptation, encouraging coaches to think of life as an endurance race rather than a sprint. His advice to “lead by example” resonated with the group, underscoring the importance of commitment and accountability.

The Latest in Endurance Technology and Recovery
Evan Peikon’s talk on wearable technology marked a high point in the seminar, demonstrating advancements that can enhance endurance training. Evan is a physiologist, computational biologist, and entrepreneur with expertise in wearable sensor development, biomarker discovery, and multi-omics data analysis. He introduced a device measuring muscle oxygenation and nitric oxide levels, with potential applications in training personalization and performance assessment. Evan explained how data like muscle oxygenation can inform coaches on how athletes’ bodies respond to intensity and guide adaptive training.

Nate Palin led the final session, focused on recovery and stress management, which are critical for sustaining high performance. He discussed resilience as a three-part process: resisting stress, rebounding, and rebuilding. Key principles like overload, progression, and reversibility were highlighted, along with the importance of individualized recovery plans. Nate concluded with insights on sleep hygiene, noting that small changes in sleep habits can significantly impact overall health.

Nutrition Strategies for Endurance
The seminar’s nutrition segment, led by dietitian Nick Behringer, addressed the essential role of carbohydrates and proteins in endurance training. Nick has a doctorate in Kinesiology from Texas A&M, served in the U.S. Army 75th Ranger Regiment, and currently serves as the Chief Academic Officer and Dean of Graduate Studies at Lionel University. Nick recommended specific nutritional intake levels to support athletes in light to intense training. His emphasis on hydration and the importance of weighing athletes before and after training reinforced the need for personalized nutrition plans. The discussion on supplements and weight management further emphasized that nutrition is not one-size-fits-all but rather should adapt to individual and sport-specific demands.

Closing Remarks and Key Takeaways
The seminar concluded with participants sharing their key takeaways. From the importance of data-informed decisions to the role of recovery and sleep, coaches left with a renewed appreciation for the holistic approach to endurance training. Harrison ended by reminding coaches of the six core components of effective coaching: knowledge, communication, care, candor, preparation, and environment.

This Soldiers To Sidelines Endurance Sports Certification Seminar provided invaluable insights into endurance coaching and fostered an environment of growth and camaraderie. The focus on integrating physical and psychological endurance, coupled with practical tools for recovery, nutrition, and performance assessment, equipped attendees to coach with a renewed purpose and a deeper understanding of the multi-faceted nature of endurance sports.

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A New Call to Serve Through Coaching
After transitioning to civilian life, Stuart found success in corporate America but felt a persistent void. It wasn’t until his son, then four years old, joined a local football team that he discovered his new calling. While initially volunteering at practices, Stuart quickly recognized the impact he could have on the lives of young athletes. His journey to coaching ignited a deep-seated passion, ultimately leading him to Soldiers To Sidelines (STS), where he attended a transformative football certification at the New York Jets training facility. Stuart describes the experience as “electric,” allowing him to connect with fellow veterans and solidify his purpose as a coach.

Stuart’s “why” is simple yet powerful: “If not me, then who?” This question drives him to teach young athletes not just the fundamentals of football but the essence of teamwork, discipline, and character. For him, coaching is an opportunity to instill values that extend beyond the field and into every aspect of life.

A Military Foundation for Success
Stuart credits his military background with setting him up for success as a football coach. The Army taught him the value of standards, discipline, and clear communication—all essential skills in coaching. He approaches every season with a mission-oriented mindset, establishing high standards and a sense of accountability for his players.

Beyond the Sidelines
His dedication doesn’t end with the players; Stuart also serves on the board of the Mount Airy Youth Athletic Association (MAYAA). Driven by a vision to expand access to sports, he has raised over $50,000 to improve facilities, offer scholarships, and ensure the highest standards of safety for young athletes. His efforts have already enabled underprivileged children to participate in sports and will soon expand to support a youth girls’ flag football team.

A Memorable Coaching Moment
Among his countless rewarding experiences, one interaction with a young player stands out. Stuart recalls a “gentle giant” he coached who, despite his strength, was hesitant about physical contact. After taking a season off, the player reconnected with Stuart in baseball, where they worked together to address his fears and build confidence. When the young athlete returned to football, he emerged as the Defensive Player of the Year—a testament to Stuart’s belief in nurturing both the physical and mental aspects of his players.

Looking Ahead
Stuart’s coaching aspirations are as ambitious as they are heartfelt. He aims to continue supporting his current players through middle school, hoping to transition to a coaching role at the high school level. Stuart knows that coaching requires patience and an individualized approach, especially with youth athletes who grow and change year over year. His goal is to bring out the best in every player, both on and off the field.

Impact of Soldiers To Sidelines
Soldiers To Sidelines remains a vital support system in Stuart’s life, empowering him in his coaching journey and personal growth. He is a shining example of how veterans can serve their communities in impactful ways, guiding young athletes to success and strengthening the bond between sports and service.

Congratulations to Stuart Hollingsworth, our October 2024 Soldier Coach of the Month! His commitment to service, resilience, and the development of young athletes exemplifies the very best of the STS mission.

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After the group share heartfelt introductions, Jen Baker, Associate Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Athletics Director, gave an informative and inspiring key note address. She covered her journey from service in the U.S. Navy, to corporate America, and then eventually to collegiate athletics leadership. She shared how the attending military women could pursue a career in sports and provided them the confidence to do it. Through her humble perspective based on a lifetime of creative career pathways, Jen set the motivational tone for the rest of the day.

We then discussed the essential skills for coaching every day in every aspect of our lives. Soldiers To Sidelines Founder and Executive Director , Harrison Bernstein, facilitated a group investigation into what coaching actually is and the hierarchy of factors essential for coaching success. The group had a wide range of expertise which, led to some fascinating revelations of personal coaching success stories. “The group of military women in attendance were some of the brightest and most dedicated coaches I have had the pleasure to work with. I know they will all find the success in coaching they are seeking. I am grateful to have the opportunity spend this time with them,” said Bernstein.

After Lunch, Soldiers To Sidelines Sports Performance Director Johannah Zabal carried the torch from their. Coach Zabal discussed the importance of leaning into your authentic self especially as a woman in a male dominated industry. Her presentation ‘Know Thy Self’ pulled from the movie Gladiator which empowered the group to find their inner Maximus Decimus Meridius.

We conclude the day with a tour of the beautiful Military Women’s Memorial led by Marilla Cushman. He deep wealth of knowledge brought authentic interest and awe to the heroic accomplishments of many women in service over the decades. Marilla provided an opportunity for all the STS military women to immortalize their military story and register with the Memorial. Everyone left workshop inspired and motivated to positively impact thousands of kids for years to come.

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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.

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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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.

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.

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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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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From Soldier to Coach

Kenny’s military service as a leader in the U.S. Army has significantly influenced his approach to coaching. During his time in the service, Kenny learned the importance of guiding, directing, and motivating others. These leadership qualities transitioned seamlessly into his second career as a coach. Today, Kenny applies the military values of purpose, direction, and motivation to the athletes he mentors in football, basketball, and strength and conditioning.

In his current role, Kenny coaches football at Freedom High School, focusing on the defensive backs, particularly the safety positions for both JV and Varsity levels. Additionally, he contributes to the school’s special teams, specifically working with the kickoff coverage unit. Outside of school sports, he coaches youth flag football at Mountain View Youth Recreation and youth basketball through the YMCA, helping to shape young athletes aged 10 and 12 in these crucial developmental years.

A Calling to Impact Lives

Kenny’s journey into coaching was deeply personal. Growing up, he experienced firsthand the transformative power of a good coach. “I remember the impact that my football coaches had on me growing up,” he reflects. “If it were not for those coaches pushing me to be the best I could be and encouraging me to go out and believe in myself, there’s no telling where I would be today.” Kenny’s desire to give back in the same way fuels his passion for coaching. His goal is not just to teach the X’s and O’s of sports but to be a light in the lives of young athletes, offering them the same encouragement he once received.

Kenny emphasizes that coaching is about more than just winning games. “I take more pride in developing the leaders of tomorrow, the husbands and fathers of the future,” he says. For Kenny, the true victories are seen in the positive growth of his players as they become responsible, compassionate adults. His lasting connections with former players, many of whom reach out to update him on their lives, are a testament to the life-changing impact he continues to have.

Overcoming Challenges, On and Off the Field

Kenny’s coaching journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From surviving open-heart surgery and a spinal surgery to stepping back from an opportunity at Brevard College due to severe health complications from COVID-19, Kenny’s personal resilience mirrors the lessons he teaches his athletes. His ability to overcome these obstacles and return to coaching with renewed passion speaks volumes about his character and dedication.

One of Kenny’s most significant learning experiences as a coach came during his time at a Christian Academy with low participation numbers. Despite these challenges, he and his team pushed through, embodying the “never give up” attitude that Kenny admires in both his players and military comrades. It was a season where life lessons far outweighed any tactical lessons about football, and it further reinforced his belief in perseverance and teamwork.

The Soldiers To Sidelines Impact

Kenny credits much of his recent success and growth as a coach to Soldiers To Sidelines. He first heard about the organization through Brevard College Head Coach Bill Khayat, who encouraged him to get involved. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and his subsequent health struggles delayed his full participation. Now, fully invested and healthier than ever, Kenny has embraced the opportunities that STS has provided. Whether attending virtual events or in-person workshops, he is an active member of the STS community, mentoring other coaches and expanding his network across the country.

“Soldiers To Sidelines has impacted my life in ways that I am very blessed for. I’ve been able to grow my coaching network in ways I never thought possible and become a mentor to many coaches around the country,” Kenny says, reflecting on his deep appreciation for the organization.

Looking Forward

When asked about his future aspirations in coaching, Kenny remains open to whatever opportunities come his way. Although he is content helping athletes at the high school and youth levels, he remains passionate about the prospect of returning to a collegiate coaching role, provided it fits both his and his family’s needs. Having already served as a head coach and offensive coordinator at the high school and junior college levels, Kenny is prepared for whatever comes next, but his top priority will always be his family and their well-being.

In his current role, Kenny continues to focus on what he loves most about coaching: helping young athletes become better people. Whether it’s guiding them on the field or teaching them life lessons, his impact reaches far beyond sports.

Kenny Stepp is more than just a coach; he is a mentor, a role model, and a true leader. His dedication to helping others, honed through his military service and his personal resilience, shines through in every team he works with. For his incredible contributions to the Soldiers To Sidelines community and his unwavering commitment to his athletes, we are honored to celebrate Kenny Stepp as our Soldier Coach of the Month for September 2024.

Congratulations, Coach Stepp! We are grateful for your service, both on the field and off, and we look forward to seeing your continued success.

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A couple of years ago, we talked to Coach Beilein, who is known for his tenure at the University of Michigan. There, he led the team to two national championship games and shared key strategies that can benefit our Soldier Coaches at all levels.

Building a Winning Culture

Coach Beilein emphasized that the foundation of any successful team is its culture, a concept familiar to our military community. At Michigan, he focused on teaching and living core values daily, much like the ethos instilled in service members. This approach transformed the program, leading to consistent success.

“Pride, poise, team,” Beilein shared, were the pillars of his coaching philosophy. These values, which resonate strongly with military ideals, guided not just how players performed on the court, but how they conducted themselves as student-athletes.

Practice Makes Perfect

One of Beilein’s most striking insights was his approach to practice, mirroring the military’s emphasis on preparation and drill. “If you’re going to be ready to use it, take two hours to plan every second of practice,” he advised. This level of preparation ensures that every moment on the court is purposeful and contributes to player development, much like mission planning in the military.

Beilein structures practices to keep players constantly engaged, using a variety of drills that maintain high energy levels while improving skills. This approach aligns well with the STS philosophy of translating military leadership skills to effective coaching methods.

Fostering Team Unity

A key aspect of Beilein’s coaching strategy is fostering a sense of unity among players, a concept deeply ingrained in military culture. He encourages players to compete not just for themselves but for their teammates, echoing the camaraderie found in military units.

Beilein shared an anecdote about a challenging plane incident the team faced, which ultimately brought them closer together. The team’s response to this adversity, rallying around the concept of “sudden change,” demonstrates the kind of resilience and adaptability that our Soldier Coaches bring to their teams.

Adapting to Modern Challenges

Coach Beilein also touched on the evolving landscape of sports, including the impact of analytics and the changing dynamics of player development. He stressed the importance of balancing data-driven decisions with intuition and experience, a skill many veterans have honed through their military service.

Key Takeaways for Soldier Coaches:

• Invest time building and reinforcing team culture daily, drawing from your military leadership experience.
• Plan practices meticulously, applying the same dedication to preparation you used in your military career.
• Design drills that keep players engaged and improve multiple skills simultaneously, utilizing your training expertise.
• Foster a team-first mentality that motivates players to perform for each other, much like the unit cohesion in the military.
• Be prepared to adapt to “sudden changes” and use them as opportunities for growth, leveraging your military adaptability.
• Balance modern analytics with sports intuition and the leadership experience gained from your service.

Whether you’re coaching youth leagues, high school teams, or aspiring to college-level coaching, these insights from a respected coach can help elevate your program. Remember, success in coaching isn’t just about X’s and O’s—it’s about building a culture of excellence that brings out the best in every player, a skill that our Soldier Coaches are uniquely qualified to deliver.

Ready to transform your leadership experience into coaching excellence?

Learn more about our upcoming workshops and clinics and join the ranks of Soldier Coaches, making a difference in communities nationwide.

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Last year, we talked to Coach Dustin Kerns, head men’s basketball coach at Appalachian State University, to share his wisdom on coaching and leadership. His insights resonate strongly with our mission to educate, develop, and certify members of the military community to become expert coaches and exemplary role models.

Here are some key takeaways that apply both on and off the court:

Understand what loses before you can win.

One of Coach Kerns’ most impactful strategies when taking over a struggling program is having players identify losing behaviors. This aligns perfectly with the STS approach of leveraging military experience to build winning teams. As Coach Kerns put it, “You’ve got to really understand what loses before you can go out there and win.” This mindset is crucial for our Soldier Coaches as they transition their leadership skills from the battlefield to the playing field.

Create alignment through shared standards.

Rather than imposing a long list of rules, Coach Kerns has his players collaboratively develop team standards. This builds buy-in and accountability, mirroring the way military units operate. He emphasizes that “how you get people to believe in them and get aligned” is crucial for success. Our certification seminars teach Soldier Coaches how to establish these shared standards in their teams.

Foster authentic connections.

Coach Kerns uses an exercise called “Highlight, Hero, Heartache and Hope” to help players bond on a deeper level. By sharing personal stories, teammates develop empathy and unity that translates to on-court performance. This approach resonates with our mission to create strong community connections through coaching.

Communicate with clarity and repetition.

When addressing young athletes, Coach Kerns stresses the importance of “speaking in soundbites”—precise, memorable phrases that reinforce key messages. This echoes the communication skills honed in military service, which we help our Soldier Coaches adapt to their coaching roles.

Stay humble and authentic.

“There’s two kinds of coaches—humble and about to be humbled,” Coach Kerns quipped. Admitting mistakes and showing vulnerability as a leader can actually strengthen your credibility and rapport with players. This aligns with our focus on developing Soldier Coaches who lead by example and continue to grow.

Trust the process.

Building a winning program takes time. Coach Kerns reminds us that “good days will add up” if you stay consistent in your approach and keep believing in what you’re doing. This mirrors the dedication and perseverance instilled through military service, which our Soldier Coaches bring to their teams.

These insights remind us that great coaching involves much more than just the game. By focusing on culture, communication, and character development, Soldier Coaches can profoundly impact young athletes’ lives while achieving success on the scoreboard.

Whether you’re a certified Soldier Coach, considering our program, or a leader in any field, Coach Kerns’ approach to building teams and developing people through sports offers valuable lessons we can all apply. At Soldiers To Sidelines, we’re committed to equipping you with these skills and more through our comprehensive certification program.

Ready to transform your leadership experience into coaching excellence?

Learn more about our upcoming workshops and clinics and join the ranks of Soldier Coaches, making a difference in communities nationwide.

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A Journey of Passion and Service

Karen began her coaching career in 1998, transitioning from a corporate role to pursue her passion for fitness and strength training. As a Navy spouse, Karen found herself in the unique position of being closely connected to the military community. This connection led her to train Special Forces personnel, their families, first responders, and everyday individuals. Her commitment to continuous learning and her pursuit of numerous certifications reflects her dedication to offering the best possible coaching to those she serves.

Her journey into coaching began even earlier, during her high school years when she coached youth gymnastics. This early experience ignited a lifelong passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals. Over the years, Karen has adapted her coaching to fit the needs of her clients, including opening the first Kettlebell Gym in Virginia Beach in 2009 and later transitioning her business online when her family relocated to Texas in 2013.

Karen’s experience as a military spouse has deeply influenced her coaching style. Training Special Forces members and their families provided her with a unique perspective on the physical and mental demands faced by those in the military. This experience has driven her to pursue a wide range of certifications, enabling her to coach with versatility and depth, addressing the diverse needs of her clients.

Karen’s connection to the military community extends beyond her role as a spouse. Her work with Soldiers To Sidelines has allowed her to feel a renewed sense of purpose and belonging after years of being part of the military community. “There was a sense of loss after 21 years in the military community and then going through a divorce,” she shares. “Meeting Harrison when he came to the Adaptive Training Foundation and hearing about STS made me feel excited and at home.”

A Heartfelt Connection

One of the most poignant moments in Karen’s coaching career occurred in 2011 when she had the honor of coaching a TEAM before they deployed. After training them for a week, one of the TEAM members introduced Karen to his wife, who later became one of her clients and a friend. Her new friend was discussing with her husband how much she loved training with Karen and he encouraged her to study for the same certification Karen held. His rationale was that she loved the work, and she should have a backup plan in case something bad were to happen.  Tragically, just a few months later, her friend’s husband was lost in a helicopter crash. Karen vividly recalls the moment she received the heartbreaking news and the impact it had on her and the military community. This experience, among many others, has left a lasting imprint on Karen’s heart, reinforcing her commitment to supporting military families and those who serve.

Innovating Through Challenge

Karen’s coaching journey has not been without its challenges. In 2023, she encountered the Adaptive Training Foundation and was inspired by the incredible athletes she met. Working with individuals who have different adaptations, such as visual impairments, traumatic brain injuries, and amputations, has pushed Karen to innovate and find creative solutions to help these athletes regain their strength and independence. One of her most rewarding experiences was helping a man who hadn’t walked in 11 years take his first unassisted steps. “We pushed hard, we fell a lot, but we kept at it until he took steps without assistance,” Karen recalls. This story epitomizes the resilience and determination that Karen brings to her coaching.

Looking Forward

Karen’s aspirations in coaching are clear: she is passionate about helping people—whether by guiding them to become coaches themselves or by aiding in their recovery post-injury. Her current work spans various organizations, including StrongFirst, the Adaptive Training Foundation, Merging Vets & Players, Resiliency Brain Health, and Semper Stronger. Karen’s coaching business today has many facets, and she feels blessed to have the opportunity to travel the world, teaching certifications and coaching adaptive athletes and veterans.

Karen Smith’s story is a testament to the profound impact that a dedicated coach can have on individuals and communities. Her journey, shaped by her experiences as a Navy spouse and her deep connection to the military community, has made her a source of strength and inspiration for many. Soldiers To Sidelines is honored to recognize Karen Smith as the Soldier Coach of the Month for August 2024, celebrating her unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their full potential.

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