Over 20 years ago at a clinic, Sam Harp, former Danvlle High School (KY) coach with seven state titles, shared a master list of what a coach needs to do, broken down by the months of the year. That list has been a big help, but when I took the job at Mercer County in April, I became overwhelmed with everything I was NOT getting done. This past Thursday, I woke up at 4 am and just started working to try to get a handle on what needs to get done. The four hour round trip, teaching school in Maysville, and doing spring practice in Harrodsburg, is making it tough to complete every task. It is very important that the 2015 seniors in my new job get an opportunity win at a high level and that they get a great experience playing their last year of high school football.
In prioritizing what needs to get done, I have broken the year down into the following: Winter, Spring, Pre-season, Season, and Post-season. I guess I just can’t seem to bring myself to use the expression “off-season” because there is very little “off” time.
Each page/period has 5 columns: 1) Big Picture:10 year plan (development of young men) ; 2) Player Development: Strength, Speed, Change of Direction, Reaction, Football Technique; 3) Finances 4) Feeder Programs 5) Nuts & Bolts (less important items but still needs to get done).
I am already sleeping better! I am accepting that I may not get everything done I want to do, but I will make sure that I get done the things that matter the most: 1- what helps people? 2- what helps us win?
The document was a lot of work, but I am willing to share it if you will email me at : david.buchanan@mercer.kyschools.us.
If this blog is beneficial to you, you will like this book. Please check it out at :
Black Shoes & White Shoestrings: Football & Life Lessons from Old Coaches
Enjoy your Memorial Day!