Video: Coaching, mentoring and leadership in the weight room

In February, Michigan State University hosted a strength and conditioning clinic that offered some great insight for those in the team sports industry.

Ken Mannie, head strength and conditioning coach at MSU and Coach & Athletic Director columnist, gave the opening presentation, and that video is shared below. It’s nearly 45-minutes long, but when you have some time after a long day we suggest sitting down and giving it a look. Mannie, who has decades of experience in the industry, shares some great thoughts.

The video, titled “Coaching, Mentoring and Leadership in the Weight Room” is relevant whether you’re a strength coach or not.

A few of Mannie’s comments:

• “I am more proud of the fact that I can call myself a coach and the kids call me coach, that’s more important than anything. Be proud of that. I think the coaching profession is one of the most commendable, admirable and important professions, as difficult as it is in this day and age because of the landscape.”

• “Inspire yourself and make it a point to inspire others around you. You’re in a profession where you have the ability to inspire people in their lives.”

• “Do at least one thing to help the profession and those in it — contribute.”

• “Send at least one hand-written note, congratulations or support. I’m not talking email and I’m not talking text. … Never underestimate the power and impact of a hand-written note.”