I was very
fortunate to have many great opportunities to learn and share ideas in the past
year. My top three experiences for 2012 were:
#1 – GAIN V Houston Texas June
12 to June 17 at Rice University. This was the fifth year for the GAIN
Apprentorship program. It was by far the best. Terrific interaction and sharing
of ideas among true professionals, the network aspect of this is really coming
together.
#2 – Global Coaching House in London
during the Olympic games. This was a place to gather and listen to presentations
and share experiences with coaches from around the world. Just the opportunity
to interact day to day with coaches like Frank Dick and Bill Sweetenham was an
experience of a lifetime. The Olympic atmosphere also helped to elevate the event;
it was special, one of the best learning experiences of my career.
#3 – Visit to University of Oregon
in November. My good friend and colleague Jim Radcliffe, head Strength
& Conditioning coach at Oregon, brought me in to do staff development with
the S&C staff and the athletic trainers. This hands down is one of the best
strength & conditioning programs I have seen in all my travels and all my
years. They train athletes. It was as experience to be totally immersed in the
program including the game day experience. One big reason Oregon plays the way
they pay is because of the way they train.
Sporting
Highlights
#1 - Aston Eaton’s world record in the decathlon in atrocious conditions
at the US Olympic Trails. This kid is special. I got to watch him train when I
was at Oregon in November. His coach Harry Marra has done a great job and there
is more to come. He has redefined the event.
#2 – David Rudisha’s world record in the 800 meters at the Olympic
games. What a spectacular run from the front and in the pressure of the Olympic
games. This guy is poetry in motion.
