Over the next three weeks, we’ll release an extra podcast each Friday morning with conversations from high school coaches and administrators. Some of the best coaches and leaders I know at any level coach at this level and I hope you learn from them!

In this episode of Beyond Coaching, Rob is joined by Troy Black and Dylan Heath, two experienced coaches working with junior high and high school athletes at Wichita (KS) Collegiate School. They discuss the evolving landscape of youth sports, from fostering a fun and engaging environment to managing competitive expectations. The conversation explores building successful programs, balancing parent involvement, and coaching the modern athlete in an era dominated by club sports and social pressures.

Key Topics Discussed:

✔️ Building Programs That Last – How strong mentorship and leadership shape youth athletic programs.

✔️ The Fun vs. Competitive Drive Debate – How to keep kids engaged while fostering a winning mindset.

✔️ The Role of Parents in Youth Sports – The pros and cons of early specialization and club sports culture.

✔️ Developing Athletes Beyond the Game – How sports teach resilience, patience, and teamwork.

✔️ Motivating Today’s Athletes – Insights into what truly drives young athletes to compete.

Memorable Quotes:

“If kids know you care about them as people first, they’ll do almost anything for you.” – Troy Black

“We want kids to have fun, develop skills, and love the game. The competitive side comes later.” – Dylan Heath

Rapid Fire Round Highlights:

Book Recommendation: There’s Only One Way to Win by Vince Lombardi

Defining Success: Seeing former athletes return and staying connected after their playing days.

New Habit: Reading more coaching and leadership books to improve as a mentor.

About Beyond Coaching:

Beyond Coaching is a podcast by the Impactful Coaching Project, in partnership with Friends University. Our mission is to help coaches develop 21st-century athletes by focusing on leadership, personal Growth, and impactful coaching strategies.

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🎧 Beyond Coaching on Substack

🎧 Beyond Coaching at beyondcoaching.alitu.com

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Rob Ramseyer Dr. Rob Ramseyer

Dr. Rob Ramseyer is the Co-Founder of the Impactful Coaching Project and Vice President of Athletics and Strategic Expansion at Friends University, overseeing 24 teams and serving on the President’s Cabinet. Under his leadership, the department has achieved significant success across all areas, earning him honors such as the KCAC Director of the Year and the NACDA Athletic Director of the Year. He resides in Wichita, KS, with his wife, Charlie, and their four children.