Happy August, and happy return to football! I’m sure you’re all filled with excitement and anticipation for the new season. As I frequently tell my wife, I work year-round to see results on 10 (hopefully more) fall Saturdays. I’m anxious to see how that work will pan out!
With our fall camp just around the corner, and many coaches addressing their staff fitness levels in the media, I found myself spending a lot of time thinking about the big picture when it comes to coaches and fitness. I think, beyond the obvious benefits, there are some deeper messages being sent to our players with regard to our own fitness levels.
Our profession is stressful, and requires long hours; I don’t think that news is groundbreaking. Along with the long hours, many meals are taken in the office, and in a hurry. Again, I doubt this shocks anyone. These factors take a toll on our fitness, and overall health. As coaches, we tell our players not to make excuses, but I think many of us are guilty of doing just that when it comes to our health and wellness. I see this as a problem, beyond the physical aspects.
I’m of the belief that it’s unfair, and hypocritical to an extent, to ask players to do something you cannot do, or have not done. Obviously, they are younger and (hopefully) better athletically than we are currently. I think both coaches and players understand this. However, if you neglect your fitness and health, what message are your players getting?
Frequently, coaches say there just isn’t time to get a workout in during the day. This, in my opinion, is an excuse. Do we accept it when an athlete says he doesn’t have time for a workout/homework/film? Of course not, and we claim that they are making excuses! We preach time management, but we are often guilty of not making time for what’s important ourselves. If we have a pizza feast in the film room, skip the gym, and generally allow our fitness to suffer, it’s obvious – the kids can see that you’ve gained 20 pounds. What’s the message there? What’s the team thinking when you’re encouraging them to take another rep/finish the drill/run harder? He’s thinking “yeah right, like you could”.
Fitness among coaches is like fitness among players. There are varying degrees. I don’t think it’s realistic for all coaches to be Mark Hudspeth at Louisiana-Lafayette – all jacked up and benching close to 400 pounds. However, like coaches, kids respect and recognize effort. If they see you in the gym, playing noon time hoops, or running the track, they make a mental note – whether they realize it or not.
As I’ve matured in this profession, my desire to be a role model has increased, as well as my awareness. I’m no Adonis, and I could always be in better shape, eat better, etc. However, I do think my players see the effort, and I think they respect it. Additionally, I want to be healthy. I want to be there for my family when I do get out of the office. I want my kids to value fitness and being active. I want to live, and coach, for a long time.
I don’t expect this post to be earth-shattering, but I do think it’s important. Think about the unintentional message you’re sending, and how you can improve that message. Pause the film for a half hour and get a sweat. You, your family, and your team will benefit.
By the way, Coach Hudspeth, keep up the good work!
Good luck to everyone this fall! I can always be reached at wrussel1@norwich.edu.