1 min read

Alan Major - Our New President of Basketball Operations

By Rising Coaches on Sep 20, 2023 8:41:19 AM

 

We are excited to announce the hiring of longtime basketball coach Alan Major as our new President of Basketball Operations. Major will be responsible for overseeing all basketball coaching-related activities and will play a critical role in the development of Rising Coaches' initiatives aimed at mentoring, networking, supporting and education for aspiring coaches around the world at every level.

3 min read

14th Annual Rising Coaches Conference Coming to Las Vegas

By Rising Coaches on Jun 30, 2023 11:00:00 AM

Rising Coaches is excited to officially announce that the 14th annual Rising Coaches Conference will be held at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada from July 13-14. It will be two days packed of speakers, networking and growing the basketball community.

Topics: Networking Building your Network DEI Alliance Rising Coaches Conference
3 min read

RISING COACHES BEGINS NEW COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH SportsLifeTalk.

By Rising Coaches on Jun 15, 2023 9:00:00 AM

Rising Coaches is excited to announce a new partnership with SportsLifeTalk. SportsLifeTalk is a podcast with relationships with coaches all across the country at every level & sport. They focus on spotlighting all kinds of talent making an impact on sports around the country.                 

Topics: Basketball Basketball Community. Basketball Coaches
9 min read

"Challenge Accepted" by Dawn Staley

By CoachSpeak.net on May 22, 2023 11:53:35 AM

I never wanted to be a coach. That is one thing. But when it was posed to me as a challenge, I am drawn to challenges. I’ve been that way my whole life.

Topics: Women's Basketball Dawn Staley CoachSpeak.net
2 min read

Rising Coaches Begins New Collaborative Partnership with CoachSpeak.net

By Rising Coaches on May 18, 2023 9:21:15 AM

Rising Coaches is excited to announce a new partnership with CoachSpeak.net. CoachSpeak.net is a websites of anecdotes, stories, expertise and perspectives from coaches in their own words.

Topics: partnership
3 min read

Ricky Weipz and Anetra Burton Join Rising Coaches Team

By Rising Coaches on May 8, 2023 9:55:54 AM

Ricky Weipz and Anetra Burton Join the Rising Coaches Team

May 8, 2023 - Rising Coaches, an organization dedicated to empowering and supporting basketball coaches at all levels, is excited to announce the the promotion of Ricky Weipz to the Director of Operations role and hiring of Anetra Burton as the new Director of Creative Content and Member Services.
 

Ricky started working for Rising Coaches as an intern in March 2021 and was hired as the Director of Digital Content during that summer. Since then, he has been responsible for most of the graphics and content posted across the Rising Coaches social media pages.

“I am forever thankful to Adam Gordon, Andy Farrell and Brandon Rosenthal for giving me the opportunity to be part of Rising Coaches a few years ago," Ricky said. "The Rising Coaches community is something very special and I look forward to helping it continue to grow and impact as many people as possible.”

Ricky just completed his fourth year as a student-manager at Arizona State University. The last three seasons he served as the head manager for the program. Weipz graduated from ASU in December 2022 with a degree in Sports Journalism and will stay with the Sun Devils as a Graduate Assistant for this upcoming year.

Brian Burton shared his thoughts on Ricky's promotion: “I absolutely love Ricky’s skill set, drive, and ability when it comes to this new role for him. Ricky has been a vital part of the behind the scenes for Rising Coaches for a while and has more than earned this promotion. He is a young man with a great versatility of skills combined with a strong work ethic that makes him a really valuable. He’s been a student manager at Arizona State and has just accepted a GA position there as well. I can definitely seeing him transiting to DOBO type of role when he finishes his masters.  He has all that you need to be a star in that role.”


Anetra is a familiar face from the All-Access Network family, where she was the Executive Producer and an integral team member in building the network into what it is today. She will utilize her expertise and creativity in her role with Rising Coaches to enhance the overall member experience.

Anetra has a BA in Business Administration from Friends Univ. and MA in Communication from Wichita State. She also has her eye on obtaining a Ph.D. soon.

Brian Burton, Rising Coaches President of Basketball Operations, expressed his excitement about the addition of Anetra: “When it comes to hiring people for different roles, trust always comes up at the top of the list. No one I knew I could trust more than my cousin Anetra to be special in this position. She’s proven how impactful & invaluable she is already with her work in a similar role working together with All-Access Network. She has been the driving force to that platform that now has over 40 million views in just 3 years. Her creativity, positive energy, and ability to connect with be huge for our members & the overall Rising Coaches community. She brings a sparkle and a joy with her along with a strong background in public relations, creative content, & production that will really help add so much to our team in this new created role for Rising Coaches.”

Additionally, Anetra’s talents also extend to the art of photography. She owns her own business, #AB Unlimited Photography, has over 35 years of experience in the field, and prides herself on thinking outside the box. She specializes in creative photography for sports and events.

Check out her website here: https://lnkd.in/gG46BvDJ 

Anetra says she is, "overjoyed to be a member of such an impactful and forward-thinking group like Rising Coaches."
 
About Rising Coaches:
Rising Coaches is dedicated to empowering, educating, and supporting basketball coaches at all levels. The organization was founded in 2010 and has since provided numerous opportunities for coaches to develop their skills and advance their careers.
Contact: Brian@risingcoaches.com
For More information visit www.risingcoaches.com
Topics: Basketball #job Anetra Burton Ricky Weipz
2 min read

Brian Burton Named Rising Coaches President of Basketball Operations

By Rising Coaches on Apr 27, 2023 10:45:00 AM

Brian Burton Named President of Basketball Operations for Rising Coaches

 
April 27, 2023 - Rising Coaches, an organization dedicated to empowering and supporting basketball coaches at all levels, is excited to announce the appointment of Brian Burton as their new President of Basketball Operations. Burton, who has spent almost 20 years as a college basketball coach, is currently a college basketball analyst for ESPN and is the founder and CEO of Uprise Athletics Group and All-Access Network. He has been working closely with Rising Coaches over the last three years, hosting shows and events, investing in the our community, and also helping start the Rising Coaches DEI-Alliance where he has served as our Vice President for Men’s Basketball.
 
“I am extremely thankful to Adam Gordon, Andy Farrell, and Brandon Rosenthal for this awesome opportunity," said Burton. "Rising Coaches has been an invaluable part of my transition from my college coaching career in many ways and I’m grateful for the role they play in the industry. I am excited to help build onto the great things they have done over the last 13 years and continue to be a positive light in the game."
 
Adam Gordon, CO-founder of Rising Coaches, expressed his excitement about the appointment of Burton. "We are thrilled to have Brian as our new President of Basketball Operations.
Brian has had a tremendous impact on Rising Coaches over the last three years with his various contributions, his endless investment in the basketball community, and helping us create & effectively run the Rising Coaches DEI-Alliance serving as Vice President. His commitment to improving the coaching industry is extremely evident. We’re thankful for the impact he’s making on the game and his heart to serve. Brian will be a tremendous asset to our members. We are fortunate to have him!”
 
Burton made the transition from College Coaching in 2020 after almost 2 decades of coaching at the D1, D2, and junior college levels. His D1 coaching stops include University of Utah, Fresno State, UTEP, Lamar, IUPUI, and Abilene Christian. He also played College Basketball at D2 & D3 levels at both St. Edwards University, and UT Dallas, in Texas. At UT Dallas, Burton was a 2 year starter and Captain while leading the team in several statistical categories including assists & minutes played. His senior year he helped led the Comets to their 1st Championship and winning season program in history.
 
Brian graduated from Plano East Senior High in Plano, TX. He and his wife, Natalie, have 3 daughters and currently live in Loveland, Colorado.
 
In his new position, Burton will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization and continue to provide support and resources to coaches at all levels.
 
Burton says, “The vision is simple.
1. Continue to create an authentic basketball community where everyone is welcome and everyone can connect, develop, & elevate.
2. To support, celebrate, and provide great benefit to our members.
3. To be a light in Men’s & Women’s basketball at all levels through Rising Coaches platforms, events, and community.”
 
About Rising Coaches:
Rising Coaches is dedicated to empowering, educating, and supporting basketball coaches at all levels. The organization was founded in 2010 and has since provided numerous opportunities for coaches to develop their skills and advance their careers.
Contact: Brian@risingcoaches.com
For More information visit www.risingcoaches.com
 
Topics: Brian Burton Basketball #job President
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Lucas Ramirez

By Rising Coaches on Mar 10, 2023 12:00:00 PM

Lucas Ramirez started coaching after an opportunity to start in the AAU circuit with the Arizona Rebels. He then went on to coach at North Canyon HS, Phoenix College, and Horizon HS. Coach Ramirez is now the Head Boys Coach at Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, AZ.
 
Read more about Coach Ramirez below! 
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Oliver Ellison

By Rising Coaches on Mar 3, 2023 1:00:00 PM

Oliver Ellison started coaching at Montgomery County Community College in PA and Gallaudet University. Coach Ellison is now the Men's Assistant Coach at Catholic University in Washington, D.C.
 
Read more about Coach Ellison below! 
2 min read

Member Spotlight: John Spezia

By Rising Coaches on Feb 23, 2023 3:00:00 PM

John Spezia has coached at all levels of the game from High School and College, to Professional and International levels. Coach Spezia is now the Athletic Director & Head Boys Basketball Coach Notre Dame LaSalette.
 
Read more about Coach Spezia below! 
2 min read

Member Spotlight: David Abbott Jr.

By Rising Coaches on Feb 9, 2023 3:00:00 PM

David Abbott Jr. has worked his way through coaching from volunteer coaching at Rivet Middle School, to Charlestown High and Indiana University Southeast. He is now the Assistant Women's Video Coordinator at the University of Louisville. 
 
Read more about Coach Abbott below! 
4 min read

Member Spotlight: Jason Hopkins

By Rising Coaches on Feb 2, 2023 3:00:00 PM

Jason Hopkins previously coached at the Mid-Pacific Institute in Honolulu, HI, Idaho State University,  Emerald City Basketball Academy, and Avery Bradley Northwest. Coach Hopkins is now the Men's Assistant Coach at Cochise College in Douglas, AZ. 
 
Read more about Coach Hopkins below! 
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Johnathan Hevia

By Rising Coaches on Jan 26, 2023 3:00:00 PM

Johnathan Hevia took to coaching at a local YMCA which lead him on to be a Graduate Assistant at Palm Beach Atlantic University and Assistant Coach at ASA College. Coach Hevia now leads Men's Basketball at the United International College in Miramar, FL.
 
Read more about Coach Hevia below! 
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Andy Fitzgerald

By Rising Coaches on Jan 19, 2023 3:00:00 PM

Andy Fitzgerald has been an Assistant Coach at both the NCAA Division II and III levels including Bryant & Stratton College, Lake Forest College, UW-Parkside, and Edgewood College. Coach Fitzgerald is now the Head Coach at the University School of Milwaukee.
 
Read more about Coach Fitzgerald below! 
2 min read

DEI Alliance to Host 2nd Annual “Equality and Inclusion Games” Throughout College Basketball

By Rising Coaches on Jan 16, 2023 9:00:00 AM

Birmingham, AL. The Rising Coaches DEI Alliance is proud to announce the return of the “Equality and Inclusion Games” during February, 2023 which is also Black History Month. The DEI Alliance is a 501c3 non-profit made up of 12 minority and social justice coaching organizations. The group is coordinating with men’s and women’s college basketball programs across the country to ask coaches and staff to wear all black on the sidelines as well as the “equal sign” lapel pin created to symbolize equality.  

Topics: DEI Alliance Equality and Inclusion Night Equality and Inclusion Games college basketball for equality
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Timothy Miguez

By Rising Coaches on Jan 12, 2023 3:00:00 PM

Timothy Miguez is the Head Men's Basketball Coach and Assistant AD at John Melvin University in Crowley, LA. Read more about Coach Miguez below!
1 min read

Member Spotlight: Abhi Prakash

By Rising Coaches on Jan 5, 2023 3:00:00 PM

Abhi Prakash began coaching as a Junior Varsity coach for Coronado High School. Coach Prakash is now the Assistant Coach for the Varsity team at Saguaro High School and 13U Coach for Peak Basketball.  Read more about Coach Prakash below!
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Joe White

By Rising Coaches on Dec 22, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Joe White began coaching at Tacoma Community College as an Assistant Coach and went on to be the Head Men's Basketball Coach at Lane Community College. Coach White is currently the Men's Assistant Coach at Idaho State University.  Read more about Coach White below!
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Adam Gage

By Rising Coaches on Dec 15, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Adam Gage began his coaching career as a Student Manager, Volunteer Assistant, then Graduate Assistant. He went on to lead Basketball Operations at Morehead State and Georgia Southern. Coach Gage is now the Men's Assistant Coach at Emporia State University.
Read more about Coach Gage below!
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Mark Schult

By Rising Coaches on Dec 8, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Mark Schult began coaching AAU and went on to coach at Clark State College and University of West Georgia. Coach Schult is currently the Men's Assistant Coach at Centre College.
Read more about Coach Schult Below!
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Sahil Lakhani

By Rising Coaches on Dec 1, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Sahil Lakhani has worked as a Manager for Bradley University, Director of Basketball Operations for Frostburg State University, and now is the Women's Assistant Coach at Lake Forest College. Read more about Coach Lakhani below!
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Jesse Watkins

By Rising Coaches on Nov 24, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Jesse Watkins enters his ninth season as the Men's Head Coach for College of Coastal Georgia.
Read more about Coach Watkins below!
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Caleb Muthiah

By Rising Coaches on Nov 24, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Caleb Muthiah joined Indiana Wesleyan as Head Manager and is now the Director of Basketball  Operations for Men's Basketball. Read more about Caleb below!
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Matt Jones

By Rising Coaches on Nov 17, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Matt Jones started as Graduate Assistant and is now the Director of Basketball  Operations for Men's Basketball at Seattle University. Read more about Matt below!
  
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Dylan Longley

By Rising Coaches on Nov 10, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Dylan Longley stumbled into coaching with first being a student manager. He now enters his seventh season as Head Women's Coach for Palo Verde College. Read more about Coach Longley below!
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Oliver Reid

By Rising Coaches on Nov 3, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Oliver Reid was recently named the Championship Men's Head Coach for the Camberwell Dragons in Melbourne, Australia. He is also the Director of Development with the Ivanhoe Knights Basketball Club. Read more about Coach Reid below!
  
1 min read

Rising Coaches Announces 2022 Award Winners

By Rising Coaches on Nov 1, 2022 7:56:00 AM

Birmingham, AL - Rising Coaches is proud to announce its second annual Rising Coaches Awards for 2022.  With 1,500 plus members of all levels, Rising Coaches is an inclusive membership-based community for basketball coaches. Rising Coaches assists by providing relationships, development and job opportunities. 

3 min read

Member Spotlight: Scott Sorenson

By Rising Coaches on Oct 27, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Scott Sorenson began his coaching career at age sixteen and is entering his 11th season as Head Coach for Northland College. Read more from Coach Sorenson below!
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Christopher Collins

By Rising Coaches on Oct 20, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Christopher Collins is the Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at The Huntington High School in  Louisiana. Read more about Coach Collins below! 
  
2 min read

DEI Alliance Announces 2022 'Next Up' Participants

By Adam Gordon on Oct 17, 2022 7:53:31 AM

Birmingham, AL. The Rising Coaches Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Alliance is pleased to announce the finalists for its third annual “Next Up” Head Coaches Training Initiative.  The finalists for “Next Up 2022” are as follows:

3 min read

Member Spotlight: Matthew Goldsmith

By Rising Coaches on Oct 13, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Matthew Goldsmith coached at Delbarton School and Amherst College before becoming the Men's Head Coach at The College of New Jersey. 
 
Read more about Coach Goldsmith below!
  
3 min read

Member Spotlight: James Kingsley

By Rising Coaches on Oct 6, 2022 3:00:00 PM

James Kingsley began coaching at South Spencer High School in Indiana before becoming Texas A&M-Texarkana's Men's Assistant Coach. 
 
Read more about Coach Kingsley below!
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Derrick Pringle

By Rising Coaches on Sep 29, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Derrick Pringle began his coaching career as a volunteer coach to then coaching at Rochester High School in Washington. Coach Pringle is now the Director of a competitive youth basketball development program in Tumwater, WA called DAP Hoops.
 
Read more about Coach Pringle below!
  
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Joe Griffin

By Rising Coaches on Sep 22, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Joe Griffin began his career as Graduate Assistant Coach for Michigan State, then as Eastern New Mexico's Assistant Coach, and on to Roosevelt University as the Head Coach. Coach Griffin recently joined Lewis University as the Men's Assistant Coach.
 
Read more about Coach Griffin below!
  
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Nick Jones

By Rising Coaches on Sep 15, 2022 4:00:00 PM

Nick Jones began his career in collegiate basketball as Student Manager with Kansas State, then Graduate Assistant with University of Hawaii, and on to being Video Coordinator at Wichita State University. Nick is now the Director of Player Development for Men's Basketball at Wichita State. Read more below!
  
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Hunter Bondurant

By Rising Coaches on Sep 8, 2022 4:00:00 PM

Hunter Bondurant is in his first season as Women's Assistant Coach at Ottawa University. Before joining the women's team staff, Coach Bondurant was the Assistant Recruiting Coordinator and Director of Social Media for the men's program. Get to know Coach Bondurant by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
  
1 min read

Member Spotlight: Tyler Slick

By Rising Coaches on Sep 1, 2022 4:00:00 PM

Tyler Slick is the Assistant Men's Basketball Coach at Lincoln Memorial. Get to know Coach Slick by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Carlos Dotson

By Rising Coaches on Aug 25, 2022 4:00:00 PM

Carlos Dotson has recently joined the Charlotte Hornets as a Basketball Operations Assistant. Get to know Carlos by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Cameron Flabel

By Rising Coaches on Aug 18, 2022 4:00:00 PM

Cameron Flabel is the Graduate Assistant coach at Hawai'i Pacific University. He started his coaching career as a student manager with Idaho State University before moving out to Hawai'i. Get to know Cameron Flabel by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Evan Kee

By Rising Coaches on Aug 11, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Evan Kee is the Head Men's Basketball Coach and Associate Director at the Apprentice School. Kee has 10 years  of coaching experience. He has held previous coaching roles at Christopher Newport University, Marymount University, Elmira College and Keuka College. Get to know Evan Kee by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Jacob Whitehead

By Rising Coaches on Aug 5, 2022 8:11:17 AM

Jacob Whitehead is the Video Coordinator at Ole Miss. He has been in the coaching industry for 6 years. Whitehead has previous experience working with Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville. Get to know Jacob Whitehead by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
  
1 min read

Mark Phelps named Chief Operating Officer of Rising Coaches

By Rising Coaches on Aug 1, 2022 10:30:00 AM

Birmingham, AL - Rising Coaches is pleased to announce the hiring of Mark Phelps as their new Chief Operating Officer. Phelps brings three decades of coaching experience to the organization. Most recently, Phelps was an assistant coach at the University of Arizona. Prior to his time in Tucson, Phelps was the head coach at Drake University. He has also spent time on staff at NC State, Missouri, Marquette and Arizona State.

2 min read

Gordon Transitions Away from CEO Role

By Rising Coaches on Aug 1, 2022 9:15:00 AM

Birmingham, AL - On August 1st, 2022, Rising Coaches announced Adam Gordon has taken the role of Vice President of Athletics for Renaissance Search and Consulting. Gordon is stepping down as CEO, but will remain a member of the executive team along with Andy Farrell and Brandon Rosenthal.  A national search is underway for Rising Coaches’ next Chief Operating Officer. 

2 min read

Member Spotlight: Timothy Valentine

By Rising Coaches on Jul 28, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Timothy Valentine is currently the Recruiting Coordinator and Assistant Coach for Northeastern University. Timothy has been coaching for 25 years. He has previous experience working at UIC, Hampton, Georgetown University, Elon University, St. Augustine University and Southern Wesleyan University.
  
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Michael Henson

By Rising Coaches on Jul 21, 2022 9:29:32 AM

 Michael Henson is the Head Manager. Michael has previous experience working at Wofford. Get to know Michael Henson by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Nicole Ambrose

By Rising Coaches on Jul 14, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Nicole Ambrose is the Assistant Women's Basketball Coach at USC Upstate. Nicole has coached at IU Southeast for 3 years as well as experience in high school and AAU coaching. Get to know Nicole Ambrose by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
3 min read

Member Spotlight: Amy Donovan

By Rising Coaches on Jul 8, 2022 7:47:27 AM

Amy Donavan is the Head Coach of the University of Alaska Fairbanks and joined Rising Coaches in 2021. Prior to  University of Alaska Fairbanks, Donavan spent time at Battle Ground High School, University of Washington (GA), Holy Names Academy (HC), Northern Arizona (AC), Shoreline Community College (HC) and Weber State (AC). Get to know Amy Donavan by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
2 min read

Member Spotlight: Keith Pickens

By Rising Coaches on Jun 30, 2022 3:00:00 PM

Keith Pickens is an Assistant Coach at SEMO since 2018 and joined Rising Coaches in 2020. Prior to  SEMO Pickens spent 8 years at Missouri State as he went from player, to GA, to assistant coach. Get to know Keith Pickens by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.

13th Annual Rising Coaches Registration Opens

By Rising Coaches Article on Apr 22, 2022 2:12:27 PM

Rising Coaches has announced that their 13th Annual Conference will be held July 19-20 in Chicago. The Rising Coaches Conference is the flagship event for the inclusive coaching community. It is a 2 day immersive experience that features speakers, happy hours, free meals and more. As great as the event itself is, the genuine relationships that are forged during the course of the conference are invaluable.

3 min read

Do Your Players Work for You? The Argument for Servant Leadership in Coaching

By Chris Straker on Apr 15, 2022 6:55:52 AM

As times are changing so must our leadership

It is the common paradigm as coaches, and especially Head Coaches, to believe they are the top of the hierarchy. All below work for them to ensure the success of the program and as such the winning record is attributed to the Head Coach.

Topics: basketball coach Servant Leadership
4 min read

Rising Coaches announces inaugural DEI Awards

By Rising Coaches Article on Apr 1, 2022 6:30:00 AM

Birmingham, AL

Topics: DEI Alliance rising coaches awards Felicia Hall Allen Eric Reveno Dawn Staley Edniesha Curry
1 min read

Rising Coaches Announces Men's and Women's Final Four Events

By Rising Coaches on Mar 8, 2022 11:05:49 AM

Rising Coaches is excited to announce details for their annual Final Four events this spring. On March 31st at the Women's Final Four in Minneapolis, Rising Coaches will host their second installment of the Women's Empowerment Series from 4-7pm at the Lumber Exchange Events Center just blocks away from the Minneapolis convention center and host hotel. The event will feature free food, cocktails and two speaker panels of some of the best and brightest minds in women's basketball. To register for this FREE event and skip the line at the door click here 

Topics: Final Four Speaker Series
1 min read

Alpert and Chibi Dinos Donate Proceeds from NFT Auction to the DEI Alliance

By Rising Coaches on Feb 7, 2022 1:09:10 PM

Birmingham, AL. Last week New York City based artist Alex Alpert teamed up with Chibi Dinos NFT project to create something special. Alpert designed a one of kind custom pair of Air Force 1’s that blended his unique artistic style and the theme of Chibi Dinos. Chibi Dinos is an NFT project that created 10,000 unique basketball playing dinosaurs from another universe. Ownership of a Chibi Dino grants it’s owner access to a play to earn game as well as exclusive Chibi content. Chibi Dinos has collaborated with several NBA players including RJ Hampton, Michael Carter Williams, Quinn Cook, Gary Harris, Kendrick Nunn, De’Aron Fox and many more. The Alpert and Chibi Dinos Air Force 1’s and the NFT of the shoes were auctioned off on Open Sea. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Rising Coaches DEI Alliance, whose mission is to use sports to create change for Equality in the sports profession and in local communities.

Topics: DEI Alliance dr. marcus bright Chibi Dinos Alex Alpert
1 min read

Rising Coaches Partners with The Basketball Podcast with Chris Oliver

By Rising Coaches on Jan 14, 2022 10:52:06 AM

Birmingham, AL. Rising Coaches Productions is proud to announce the addition of the No. 1 basketball podcast on the planet, “The Basketball Podcast” with Chris Oliver to its line-up of podcasts. The show, which began production in 2018, has collected over 2.5 million listeners in just under 200 episodes. 

Topics: chris oliver The Basketball Podcast Basketball Immersion Rising Coaches Productions
2 min read

Dr. Marcus Bright joins Rising Coaches DEI Alliance as Senior Advisor

By Rising Coaches on Jan 14, 2022 10:09:02 AM

The Rising Coaches Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Alliance is proud to announce that education and social innovation leader Dr. Marcus Bright has joined the Alliance as Senior Advisor. Dr. Bright has worked across the country to build partnerships and put processes in place that have generated access, opportunities, and resources for diverse populations of people. He has published over 150 articles in various publications including the Huffington Post, The Grio, Miami Herald, and Diverse: Issues in Higher Education, hosted a television show that was nominated for a Regional Emmy Award, and spoken across the country on a variety of topics related to public policy, education, and social justice.

Topics: Adam Gordon dei DEI Alliance dr. marcus bright Equality and Inclusion Night Darryl Jacobs
2 min read

DEI Alliance Hosts Equality & Inclusion Night Throughout College Basketball

By Rising Coaches on Jan 11, 2022 7:30:00 AM

Birmingham, AL. Rising Coaches DEI Alliance is proud to announce the inaugural Equality and Inclusion Night February, 2022 which is also Black History Month.  The DEI Alliance, made up of 12 minority and social justice coaching organizations, is coordinating with college basketball programs across the country to ask coaches and staff to wear all black on the sidelines as well as the “equal sign” lapel pin created to symbolize equality.

Topics: Diversity Equity and Inclusion DEI Alliance Equality and Inclusion Night
3 min read

DEI Alliance Spotlight: Joe White

By Rising Coaches on Dec 22, 2021 8:26:06 AM

Joe White, a member of the Latino Basketball Coaches Association, is the Assistant Men's Basketball Coach at Idaho State University.
 
1.Why did you get into coaching?
Topics: Diversity DEI Spotlight Latino Association of Basketball Coaches
3 min read

DEI Alliance Spotlight: Eric Gracia

By Rising Coaches on Dec 6, 2021 5:03:45 PM

Eric Gracia, a member of the Latino Basketball Coaches Association and Be Ready, is the Director of Video & Analytics for Penn State Women's Basketball.
 
1.Why did you get into coaching?
Topics: Diversity DEI Spotlight Latino Association of Basketball Coaches Penn State WBB Be Ready
1 min read

The Right Fit Podcast Returns with New Host Darryl Jacobs

By Rising Coaches on Nov 9, 2021 7:00:00 AM

Birmingham, AL. The Right Fit podcast returns for season two with new host Darryl Jacobs. The hit podcast gives listeners a behind the scenes look at the hiring process in college athletics. Each episode features an in-depth interview with a different college athletic director or decision maker. Season one was hosted by Rising Coaches CEO Adam Gordon and featured fourteen episodes of interviews with Mississippi State athletic director John Cohen, Eastern Michigan VP and Director of Athletics Scott Wetherbee, Brady Barke Director of Athletics at Southeast Missouri State University, Dr. Joel Erdmann of the University of South Alabama and many more.

1 min read

Field Set for the 2021 Rising Coaches Classic

By Rising Coaches on Oct 28, 2021 11:19:38 AM

Birmingham, AL. Rising Coaches is pleased to announce the inaugural Rising Coaches Classic. The Multi-Team Event will be hosted by the College of Charleston from November 11-14th and will feature four division one men’s basketball teams. The field for the event will include Loyola MD, South Carolina State, Lipscomb and host school College of Charleston. All games will be broadcast live by FloSports at www.flosports.com

Topics: Adam Gordon Brian Burton MTE College of Charleston tournament Rising Coaches Classic Basketball Tournament
5 min read

RISING COACHES ADDS PROCOPIO

By Rising Coaches on Oct 11, 2021 9:34:01 AM

Birmingham, AL - Rising Coaches is proud to announce the addition of world-renowned player development coach & consultant Mike Procopio to its staff and Rising Coaches Consulting.

Topics: Consulting New Mentorship Program mike procopio Coach mentoring
2 min read

DEI Alliance Announces 2021 "Next Up" Participants

By Rising Coaches on Oct 4, 2021 1:41:22 PM

Birmingham, AL. The Rising Coaches Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Alliance is pleased to announce the finalists for its second annual “Next Up” Head Coaches Training Initiative.  The finalists for “Next Up 2021” are as follows:

Topics: Search Firm dei Next Up DEI Alliance herb courtney Renaissance Search and Consulting
1 min read

Fernandes Joins Rising Coaches as Director of External Ops

By Rising Coaches on Sep 24, 2021 7:20:39 AM

Birmingham, AL. Rising Coaches has announced the addition of Menelik Fernandes to its' staff. Fernandes will take over as the Director of External Operations for Rising Coaches. "We are so excited to add Menelik to our team," said Rising Coaches CEO Adam Gordon. "His background in sales and his experience as a member of Rising Coaches will provide our company with a valuable skill set and perspective"

Topics: rising coaches staff Menelik Fernandes Rising Coaches hires External operations
1 min read

Rising Coaches Announces 2021 Award Winners

By Rising Coaches on Sep 7, 2021 5:00:00 AM

Birmingham, AL - Rising Coaches is proud to announce its inaugural 2021 Rising Coaches Awards.  With 1,500 plus members of all levels, Rising Coaches is an inclusive membership-based community for basketball coaches. Rising Coaches assists by providing relationships, development and job opportunities. 

Topics: award winners rising coaches awards lifetime award
1 min read

Bender Named Executive Director of Basketball and Sponsorships

By Rising Coaches on Sep 1, 2021 6:25:39 AM

Birmingham, AL. Southwest Mississippi Community College head coach and long time Rising Coaches member, Bryan Bender has joined the company in a leadership role. Bender will take over hosting duties for a weekly member's Zoom and the very popular Rising Coaches Podcast. In addition to hosting content, Bender will work behind the scenes to help Rising Coaches add strategic partners that can add value to the coaching community. "We are thrilled to add Bryan to our team," said Rising Coaches CEO Adam Gordon. "He is an extremely talented communicator who believes in our brand. He will provide instant value to our members and to our company."

Topics: bryan bender rising coaches staff executive director
1 min read

Rising Coaches Launches Training Course for Grad Assistants

By Rising Coaches on Aug 26, 2021 2:25:25 PM

Birmingham, AL. Rising Coaches has produced the first ever training resource for Graduate Assistant Coaches. The position of Graduate Assistant is arguably one of the most important on staff. GA's are asked to wear many hats and balance several different relationships all with little to no coaching experience under their belt.

Topics: Coaching Resources GA Academy Graduate Assistant Basketball Coach Training
3 min read

DEI Spotlight: Sheila Boykin on giving back to the game

By Rising Coaches on Aug 9, 2021 1:50:00 PM

Sheila Boykin is giving back to the game as an Assistant Coach for the CSUN Women's Basketball team.

Topics: Women's Basketball DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance Ganiyat Adeduntan
1 min read

Erin Sinnott To Join Minnesota Women's Basketball Staff

By Rising Coaches on Jul 26, 2021 8:36:42 AM

Birmingham, AL. Erin Sinnott, who has served as the Director of Operations and Member Services for Rising Coaches since the spring of 2020, has been hired in a support staff position for Minnesota Women's Basketball. During her time with Rising Coaches, Sinnott helped run the internal operations of the company as well as manage the needs of Rising Coaches' over 1,500 members. "Erin has been such a vital part of our company's growth over the last year" said Rising Coaches CEO Adam Gordon. "Not only did she help streamline all of our behind the scenes processes, but she ingratiated herself to our community of coaches. She's been totally bought into our mission of inclusion and development. We couldn't have asked for a better ambassador for our brand."

Topics: Rising Coaches erin sinnott women's basketball coach lindsey whalen Rising Coaches Director of Operations Minnesota Golden Gophers Women's Basketball
2 min read

Rising Coaches Search and Consulting set to take part in BOSCA

By BOSCA on Jul 8, 2021 7:00:00 AM

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA – The Business of Small College Athletics (BOSCA) today announced Rising Coaches Search & Consulting as the Exclusive Search Firm Sponsor for the 2021 BOSCA Workshop to be held July 19-20, 2021 in Oklahoma City. 

Topics: Search Firm bosca Rising Coaches Search Coaching Search Business of Small College Athletics
1 min read

Speakers Announced for Rising Coaches Conference East

By Rising Coaches on Jun 29, 2021 12:11:24 PM

Rising Coaches has announced its' first group of speakers for the 12th Annual Rising Coaches Conference East set to take place in Atlanta, July 6-7th. The line-up includes Alabama head coach and SEC champion Nate Oats, Virginia Tech head coach Mike Young, Georgia State head coach Rob Lanier, Noel Gillespie - head coach of the College Park SkyHawks of the NBA G League, Richie Riley of South Alabama, DeLaina Jordan of Parker Executive Search and many more. The event will also include a panel about the hiring process with new Kennesaw State women's basketball coach Octavia Blue and their COO who led the search Tamica Smith Jones.

Topics: Social Justice Rising Coaches Event Rising Coaches Conference deLaina Jordan
2 min read

Wabash College Hires Chris Burke to Lead Lacrosse Program

By Rising Coaches Article on Jun 14, 2021 12:41:36 PM

Wabash College has named Chris Burke to lead its men's lacrosse program according to Wabash Director of Athletics Matt Tanney. The national search for a new Lacrosse coach was led by Rising Coaches Search and Consulting.
 
Burke comes to Wabash from Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri, where he served the past four seasons as the first assistant coach, defensive and goalie coach, and recruiting coordinator for the men's lacrosse program. The Saints were ranked as high as 12th nationally in 2021 and earned berths in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) Tournament in three of Burke's four seasons as an assistant. Burke coached the 2019 GLVC Men's Lacrosse Player of the Year and the 2021 GLVC Freshman of the Year. A total of nine Maryville players earned All-GLVC honors for the 2021 campaign.
 
Burke spent two seasons as a volunteer assistant coach at Saint Leo University in Florida before joining the NCAA Division II program as a player. Burke served as team captain as a senior and helped the Lions earn a Sunshine State Conference tournament appearance in 2016. He was the Student Veterans of America President while at Saint Leo, as well.
 
"An experienced coach with strong recruiting ties both in the Midwest and nationally, Coach Burke will advance and grow the Wabash lacrosse program," Tanney said. "Chris' reputation as a builder of team cultures precedes him. He's a welcome addition to Wabash College and Little Giants athletics."
 
A native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Burke won three divisional championships as a member of the First Colonial Lacrosse Club.
 
Burke served as a member of the United States Marine Corps for five years. He rose to the rank of corporal and received a Purple Heart after being wounded in combat in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
 
"I would like to thank Mr. Tanney and the members of the search committee for their time and consideration," Burke said. "I would also like to thank the coaches, players, and parents at both Saint Leo and Maryville for preparing me for this next step in my coaching career. I want to create an excitement for Wabash lacrosse. I want to create an environment for growth not just for the players but for the staff, as well.  Building the program is going to take patience, it's not going to happen overnight. It will be built through the culture and the identity of our team."

Topics: Rising Coaches Search Chris Burke Wabash College Men's Lacrosse Matt Tanney
4 min read

DEI Spotlight: Marlon Stewart is staying loyal to the process

By Rising Coaches on Jun 2, 2021 9:25:00 AM

Marlon Stewart is an Assistant Coach at Oregon State and a legacy member of Rising Coaches. 
 
1. Why did you get into coaching?
 
Topics: marlon stewart DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance
1 min read

Speakers Announced for the Rising Coaches Conference West

By Rising Coaches on May 25, 2021 7:14:56 PM

The Rising Coaches Conference West which will be held June 17-18 at State Farm Stadium in Phoenix, AZ has announced this year's line up of speakers. The conference will feature some of the best basketball minds in the world from men's and women's college basketball, as well as the NBA. The speaker line-up includes ...

Topics: Rising Coaches Event Rising Coaches Conference phil beckner coaches conference phoenix chris oliver damon stoudemire
3 min read

DEI Spotlight: New Colgate head coach Ganiyat Adeduntan

By Rising Coaches on May 25, 2021 8:24:00 AM

Ganiyat Adeduntan is an inspiration for female coaches and the Head Coach at Colegate University.

1. Why did you get into coaching?

Topics: Women's Basketball DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance Ganiyat Adeduntan
1 min read

DEI Spotlight: Coaches 4 Change Founder Carmen Maciariello

By Rising Coaches on May 18, 2021 10:02:00 AM

Carmen Maciariello is the founder of Coaches 4 Change and Head Coach at Siena College.

Topics: Carmen Maciariello DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance Coaches 4 Change
1 min read

Montreat College Hires Lohmuller as Men's Lacrosse Coach

By Rising Coaches on May 17, 2021 7:06:46 PM

Birmingham, AL. Keith Lohmuller has been named the new men's lacrosse coach at Montreat College. The national search was conducted by Rising Coaches Search and Consulting. Lohmuller comes to Montreat from Queens University where he had been an assistant coach for the past three seasons. Queens lacrosse was ranked in the top 20 for NCAA DII programs each of the three seasons Lohmuller was on staff.

Topics: Rising Coaches Search montreat college lacrosse keith Lohmuller jose larios
1 min read

Rising Coaches Announces Dates and Locations for 2021 Summer Events

By Rising Coaches on May 12, 2021 11:42:59 AM

Rising Coaches live events are back! Rising Coaches has announced a pair of events this summer on either side of the country. The 12th Annual Rising Coaches Conference will be held on June 17-18 in Phoenix, AZ and again July 6-7 in Atlanta.

Topics: Rising Coaches Event Rising Coaches Conference Coaching Clinic
2 min read

Rising Coaches Consulting Communities

By Rising Coaches on May 6, 2021 5:37:30 PM

Birmingham, ALRising Coaches Consulting is excited to introduce a new mentorship package to the Rising Coaches community.  The Community Mentorshave been designed to create small communities across various segments of the basketball world, allowing for an even more personalized, relevant experience to its members.

Topics: New Mentorship Program Professional Community Men’s College Community High School Community Women’s College Community

Rising Coaches Members Will now Receive Thousands of Discounts and Deals

By Rising Coaches on May 3, 2021 11:05:03 AM

Rising Coaches is excited to launch a new partnership with BenefitHub. Rising Coaches members will now have access to a BenefitHub page which offers thousands of discounts and deals from all kinds of different companies from airlines, rental cars, home insurance, gym memberships, local restaurants, etc.

Topics: Membership Perks Rising Coaches Discounts Rising Coaches Member Benefits Rising Coaches BenefitHub
2 min read

Interview Questions You Should Anticipate

By Michelle Young on Apr 28, 2021 12:53:07 PM

Answering questions is one of the most important aspects of an interview.  Pro Tip: be prepared to answer questions that have nothing to do with X and Os.  Not sure what those questions might be?  Good thing you are a member of Rising Coaches.  We’ve got that cheat code all ready for you too.

Topics: Interview Coaches Prepared Interview Questions Athletic Directors Sport Administrators, Candidates
2 min read

Cheat Code 2: What Interviewers HATE Candidates Do or Say

By Michelle Young on Apr 26, 2021 10:37:08 AM

You’ve got down what interviewers LOVE candidates do or say Part 1.  It’s time for a quick refresher on what interviewers HATE candidates do or say.

Topics: Coaches Athletic Directors Candidates Cheat Code 2
2 min read

Cheat Code 1: What Interviewers LOVE Candidates Do or Say

By Michelle Young on Apr 20, 2021 10:42:25 AM

It’s time to interview for that position you’ve been eyeing. You really want this job. You want to make sure you put the best foot forward.  It’s a good thing you are a member of Rising Coaches.  Continuing this five part series, we’ve got the cheat code all ready for you to succeed.

Topics: Coaches Cheat Code 1 Athletic Directors Candidates
5 min read

DEI Spotlight: Jewish Coaches Association Member Scott Garson

By Rising Coaches on Apr 18, 2021 7:57:00 AM

Scott Garson is an assistant coach at Santa Clara and is a member of the Jewish Coaches Association

Topics: Rising Coaches DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance Jewish Coaches Association Scott Garson
4 min read

You Have An Interview: How to be Prepared for "Game Day"

By Michelle Young on Apr 15, 2021 8:41:34 AM

You did it! You have an interview for a position you have been eyeing.  It’s time to get ready for the interview.

Topics: Interview Network Prepared In Person Interview Tips Professional Zoom Interview
1 min read

Introducing rising coaches new program #HealthyCoach

By Rising Coaches on Apr 13, 2021 6:00:00 AM

Birmingham, AL – Rising Coaches is excited to introduce a new program to the Rising Coaches community, #HealthyCoach. The ground-breaking program is headed up by Rising Coaches newest partner, Jason Fry of #HealthyLeader.

Topics: HealthyCoach Breathwork Jason Fry routine Decision Making 28-day program Sample Workouts
3 min read

Not Interviewing? Start Preparing For It Today

By Michelle Young on Apr 12, 2021 2:35:06 PM

It’s that time of year again -- people are changing jobs faster than they can update their Twitter handle.  If you aren’t someone who is packing your bags or moving on to a different position on your staff -- there are things you can do today to get ready when it is your chance.

Topics: Social Media Current Job LinkedIn Network Jobs Business Card
2 min read

Rising Coaches Announces New Partnership with RT Software

By Rising Coaches on Apr 8, 2021 7:58:41 AM

RT Software, the industry leader in broadcast graphics around the world is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Rising Coaches, an inclusive membership-based community for basketball coaches at all levels.

Topics: partnership Rising Coaches Event RT Software Broadcast Graphics Exclusive Pricing Basketball Community.
1 min read

Rising Coaches is Featured in AdB Hoops Magazine

By Rising Coaches on Apr 5, 2021 11:02:31 AM

In an effort to build global relationships throughout the basketball community, Rising Coaches is excited to be featured in the latest issue of AdB Hoops Magazine. AdB Hoops Magazine is a world leader in coaching content and over the last 12 months has released nine outstanding magazines for coaches and the basketball community both in English and Spanish. 

Topics: Rising Coaches adb hoops
1 min read

Rising Coaches DEI Alliance Statement on the Resignation of Jason Shay

By Rising Coaches on Apr 1, 2021 3:24:34 PM

The Rising Coaches DEI Alliance is asking all coaches, despite their race, gender or rank to stand together in unity as one.  Jason Shay, most recently the head men's basketball coach at East Tennessee State University, was reportedly forced to resign after just one season on Tuesday.

4 min read

DEI Spotlight: embRACE Us Member Marlon Guild

By Rising Coaches on Mar 29, 2021 8:25:00 AM

Marlon Guild is an assistant coach at Rider University and a member of embRACE Us.
 
1.    Why did you get into coaching?
Topics: DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance Coaches 4 Change Marlon Guild Rider Men's BAsketball

Rising Coaches Announces Final Four Speaker Series

By Rising Coaches on Mar 24, 2021 7:27:34 PM

Rising Coaches has opened registration for its' annual Final Four Speaker Series. Rising Coaches members will receive free access and will not need to register for the event. The conference will be available to non-members for $15. 

Topics: Final Four Speaker Series Virtual Coaching Clinic Rising Coaches Event

Rising Coaches Search & Consulting Offers 1/2 Off Coaching Searches to Minority AD's

By Rising Coaches on Mar 17, 2021 7:42:57 AM

Rising Coaches Search and Consulting has teamed up with the DEI Alliance to offer an edge to minority led athletic departments. For a limited time Rising Coaches will offer half off coaching searches to athletic directors of color.

Topics: Rising Coaches Search DEI Alliance college athletic hirings Coaching Search
4 min read

DEI Spotlight: Women of Color Coaching Network Member Taja Edwards

By Rising Coaches on Mar 15, 2021 8:35:00 AM

Taja Edwards is an assistant coach at Loyola Marymount and is a member of the Women of Color Coaches Network.
 
1.    Why did you get into coaching?
Topics: DEI Spotlight women of color coaches network women's basketball coach Taja Edwards LMU Womens Basketball assistant basketball coach
5 min read

DEI Alliance Taps into resources to help prepare another wave of Head Coaches

By Cory Van Dyke on Mar 10, 2021 2:12:59 PM

Xavier men’s assistant coach Ben Johnson recognizes the need. The majority of men’s and women’s scholarship players across the country are Black yet these teams are largely led by white head coaches.

Topics: DEI Alliance college athletic hirings Next Up” Head Coaches 12 interviews Minority Coaches
2 min read

DEI Spotlight: Black Coaches Association Member Drew Williamson

By Rising Coaches on Mar 9, 2021 10:28:00 AM

Drew Williamson is the Assistant Coach at Virginia State University and is a member of the Black Coaches Association 

  1. Why did you get into coaching?
    I love this game. For me it's being able to mentor and teach life lessons through this game. Also want to have a positive impact on the lives of the young men that I coach. The exact same way all of the coaches I had, did for me.
  2. How many years have you been coaching?
    9
  3. Who has been your biggest inuence in coaching and why?
    Travis DeCuire. He was my position coach when I played, and really poured into my basketball growth on and off the floor, and now has done the same with my coaching career.
  4. What do you enjoy most about coaching and why?
    Getting a chance to witness daily, weekly, monthly and yearly growth in the young men I get to coach. Love being a small part of their growth from boys to men.
  5. What has been one of the greatest lessons you have learned about life through coaching? Please explain.
    Remain as Consistent as possible in every aspect of your life. On and Off the court. In life it is human nature and easy to get too high when things are going well, and too low when during tougher times. Being able to remain consistent with who you are and the messages you deliver are extremely important.
  6. What is your ultimate goal in coaching?
    Being a Head Coach is my ultimate goal and continuing to have a positive impact on the staffs, and young men I am around.
  7. What has been your greatest lesson as a coach during the pandemic?
    During the pandemic, my greatest lesson has been gaining a greater understanding of my core values, and the things that are most important in my life.
  8. What has been one of the toughest lessons you have learned through coaching. Please explain.
    As much as you want to have such a huge impact on every player that you recruit or coach. You will have the student athlete that you just can't seem to get through to. It always stings, because regardless of the circumstances, you still come away from the situation always thinking you could have done more. Those situation sting.
  9. As a minority coach, what do you feel has been the biggest challenge for minority coaches in the profession?The proper education on how to succeed long term in the profession as well as advancement opportunities. Knowing we may only get one shot at this thing. Being as prepared as possible through proper training is vital.
  10. Tell us something about yourself that people would be surprised to know about you.
    I spend a lot of my free time doing "Carpentry". I try to build any and everything around my house.

 

1 min read

Milligan University Hires Christian Pope as Director of Athletics

By Rising Coaches on Mar 4, 2021 2:17:26 PM

Milligan University has tabbed Christian Pope to serve as its' next Director of Athletics following the retirement of long time AD Mark Fox. The national search for Milligan's Athletic Director was led by Rising Coaches Search and Consulting. 

Topics: Search Firm Rising Coaches Search Christian Pope Milligan Athletics Mark Fox Dr. Bill Greer
2 min read

Rising Coaches Launches Intro to Coaching to Help Athletes Transition into Coaching

By Rising Coaches on Mar 1, 2021 7:00:00 AM

Birmingham, AL. Rising Coaches has long been known for hosting first class events for the coaching community. Beginning in 2021, they will host their first event for student-athletes. The “Intro to Coaching” program will provide the knowledge, resources and path-way for student-athletes to successfully transition into a career in coaching. “I think a lot of athletes would love to make a career out of teaching the game that they love, but they don’t know where to start,” said Rising Coaches CEO Adam Gordon. “There is no roadmap to this profession. There’s no training, or resources and a lot of times you have to know someone just to know what jobs are even open.” Intro to Coaching will look to fill that void. The two-day conference will cover topics including earning trust and responsibilities, building relationships with your players and staff, navigating the profession, leveraging your experiences, financial planning and more. Rising Coaches will bring in some of the top coaches from the HS, AAU, College and Professional levels to speak to their group. The conference will conclude with a speed-interview session. Head and Assistant coaches will be invited to meet and interview the participants of the Intro to Coaching program. “Our goal is for our participants to leave with an understanding of the realities of the coaching profession, an understanding of what it takes to be successful in the coaching profession, and an expanded network and relationships that may help them personally or professionally.”

Topics: How to get into Coaching coaching Rising Coaches DEI Alliance Intro to Coaching
4 min read

DEI Spotlight: Minority Coaches Association Member Vincent Robinson

By Rising Coaches on Feb 28, 2021 7:49:00 AM

Vincent Robinson is the associate head coach at Miles College and is a member of the Minority Coaches Association
 
1.    Why did you get into coaching?
Topics: DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance Vincent Robinson basketball coach Minority Coaches Association
1 min read

"The Carousel" Will Discuss the Latest News & Scoop in Open Bball Jobs

By Rising Coaches on Feb 26, 2021 1:35:30 PM

The Rising Sports Network is proud to announce its’ latest show “The Carousel” hosted by Rising Coaches CEO Adam Gordon and All Access Network founder Brian Burton. The Carousel will be an hour-long, weekly show that focuses on open jobs in college basketball. Adam and Brian will discuss potential fits and scoop on the latest open jobs in hoops with their guests and listeners. The show will be streamed live on Thursdays at 12pm EST on all digital platforms as well as released as a podcast on all major providers.

6 min read

Examining the Impact of COVID-19 on Prosepctive Student-Athletes

By Dr. Marcus Bright on Feb 25, 2021 12:10:21 PM

 
Topics: coaching Covid-19 Impact on Sports Covid 19 Impact on Recruiting dr. marcus bright
4 min read

DEI Spotlight: Latino Association of Basketball Coaches Founder Jason Ludwig

By Rising Coaches on Feb 21, 2021 2:43:00 PM

Jason Ludwig is an assistant coach at Santa Clara University and is the founder of the Latino Association of Basketball Coaches
 
1.    Why did you get into coaching?
Topics: coaching Rising Coaches DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance Latino Association of Basketball Coaches Jason Ludwig LABC

Rising Coaches is Featured in AdB Hoops Magazine

By Rising Coaches on Feb 16, 2021 8:00:00 AM

In an effort to build global relationships throughout the basketball community, Rising Coaches is excited to be featured in the latest issue of AdB Hoops Magazine. AdB Hoops Magazine is a world leader in coaching content and over the last 12 months has released nine outstanding magazines for coaches and the basketball community both in English and Spanish.  To access their catalog of magazines, visit AdB HOOPS DIGITAL today!

Topics: Rising Coaches adb hoops
2 min read

DEI Alliance: Women of Color Coaches Network President Jackie Carson

By Rising Coaches on Feb 14, 2021 2:16:00 PM

Jackie Carson is the head Women's Basketball Coach at Furman University and the president of the Women of Color Coaches Network.

  1. Why did you get into coaching?

It was purely "accidental". I was a pre-med major in college and once I nished my overseas pro career, I thought I would start getting hours for my medical career. I missed the game so much that I became an AAU coach while getting my hours. The next thing I know, I am interviewing at Bucknell for the assistant coach position and the rest is history.

Topics: Women's Basketball dei DEI Spotlight jackie carson furman wbb women of color coaches network women's basketball coach
2 min read

DEI Spotlight: Equality Coaching Alliance Member Anthony Nicodemo

By Rising Coaches on Feb 8, 2021 6:30:00 AM

Anthony Nicodemo is an open high school basketball coach and AD in New York. He is also a member of the Equality Coaching Alliance, an organization for LGBT+ coaches, administrators and staff.

  1. Why did you get into coaching?

Love of sports at an early age

Topics: DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance LGBT Coaches Anthony Nicodemo Equality Coaching Alliance
3 min read

DEI Alliance Spotlight: Coaches 4 Change Member Antoni Wyche

By Rising Coaches on Feb 1, 2021 5:15:00 AM

Antoni Wyche is an assistant coach at Siena College and is a member of Coaches 4 Change.

  1. Why did you get into coaching? I got into coaching in order to use my experiences playing collegiately and professionally to help young men grow and develop during their college experience both on and off the court.

 

Topics: Siena Saints Basketball Rising Coaches DEI Spotlight DEI Alliance Coaches 4 Change Antoni Wyche
2 min read

Stop Self-Sabotaging

By Bret Burchard on Jan 30, 2021 10:00:00 AM

This is Part 6 of a six-part series unpacking how to recognize when you’re performing with an inferior mindset. 
Topics: Leadership coaching skills Basketball Self-Sabotaging
2 min read

Emotional Intelligence

By Julia Bremner on Jan 29, 2021 12:00:00 PM

Emotional Intelligence Series 

#RISEolution2020

Leadership Coach Adam Gierlach brings his insight on Emotional Intelligence to the Rising Coaches Community. Gierlach touches on what Emotional Intelligence is and why it is significant, skills that are associated with EI, and practices to support YOUR development into becoming an Emotional Intelligent leader. 

Topics: Leadership skills Part #1 Part #2 Series Emotional Intelligence Growth
3 min read

Judging Others, Judging You

By Bret Burchard on Jan 29, 2021 12:00:00 PM

This is Part 5 of a six-part series unpacking how to recognize when you’re performing with an inferior mindset. 

Topics: Leadership coaching Basketball Judging Others Judgement
2 min read

Victim of External Circumstances

By Bret Burchard on Jan 28, 2021 12:00:00 PM

This is Part 4 of a six-part series unpacking how to recognize when you’re performing with an inferior mindset. 

Topics: Basketball Plays Leadership coaching Basketball external circumstances
3 min read

Stepping in Front of a Camera

By Susanne McDonald on Jan 28, 2021 8:00:00 AM

As a coach, you wouldn’t let a player step on to the court for a game without warming up first.  You must warm up before stepping in front of the camera too. You may feel nervous whether there is an audience or not, so regardless you must engage your supportive breath by warming up.  

Topics: Warm Up Breath Body and Voice Speech teleprompter Body Language
3 min read

Swayed By Shoulds

By Bret Burchard on Jan 27, 2021 12:16:49 PM

This is Part 3 of a six-part series on how to recognize if you’re performing with an inferior mindset. The first clue was to notice when you are stuck with no clear way forward.

Topics: Leadership Motivation coaching Siena Saints Basketball Coaching Resources Unhealthy Motivator Shoulds Powerful
2 min read

Stuck With No Clear Way Forward

By Bret Burchard on Jan 26, 2021 3:00:00 PM

This is Part 2 of a six-part series on how to recognize if you’re performing with an inferior mindset. 

Topics: Mindset Setbacks six-part series Part two
4 min read

Brush Up on Your Video Call Etiquette

By Michelle Young on Jan 26, 2021 8:00:00 AM

As the calendar turns to 2021, it doesn’t look like virtual calls are going anywhere anytime soon.  At Rising Coaches, we work together to do everything we can to build our personal and professional branding message.  Video call presence has become increasingly important as the front door to our own personality during the pandemic.

Topics: During the Call Zoom Video Call Etiquette Do's & Don'ts 10 Tips
3 min read

Is Mindset Really The Solution?

By Bret Burchard on Jan 25, 2021 8:35:41 PM

The emphasis on mental skills training is infiltrating every endeavor. It’s considered the tipping point for success at work and fulfillment in life. It is becoming the premiere antidote to relieving stress and the next great performance hack. It is the new answer to all of our problems.

Topics: success Toolset Mindset
3 min read

DEI Alliance Spotlight: Asian Coaches Association VP Steve Yang

By Rising Coaches on Jan 24, 2021 1:17:00 PM

Steve Yang is the Director of Operations for Georgetown Women's Basketball and the Vice President of the Asian Coaches Association
 
1.Why did you get into coaching?
Topics: Diversity DEI Spotlight Asian Coaches Association
4 min read

Penning a Note is Good Business

By Michelle Young on Jan 21, 2021 8:00:00 AM

As a child, my mom insisted I pen a handwritten note thanking my Grandma Schmitt for my birthday present. I wasn’t happy – that note stood between me and the neighborhood kickball game. But the next time I visited my grandma, the note was taped to her avocado green fridge. She said it made her smile every time she saw it.

Topics: Penning Thank you Note Handwritten Notes Hallmark
3 min read

The Year Of The Networking Conversation

By Michelle Young on Jan 20, 2021 5:00:00 PM

It’s being said 2021 will be the year of the conversation.  At Rising Coaches, let's make it the year of the networking conversation.  Interested in moving up, building your network or growing in the profession? The time is now. 

Topics: Networking Conversation Building your Network
1 min read

Former Athletic Director of the Year joins 'Rising Coaches Search' in Senior Consultant role

By Rising Coaches on Jan 14, 2021 7:30:00 AM

Jeremy Capo, winner of the 2018 NACDA Under Armour Athletic Director of the Year award, joins the team at Rising Coaches Search and Consulting. Capo has over 16 years of experience working in athletic administration including stops as the director of athletics at Iowa Western Community College and New Mexico Junior College.

Topics: Search Firm Athletic Director Jeremy Capo Rising Coaches Search
3 min read

Connecting to Your Supportive Breath PART TWO

By Susanne McDonald on Jan 12, 2021 8:00:00 AM

The fear of public speaking can be so strong that our bodies respond to it as if it were a life or death situation. Often when getting ready to do a presentation or public speaking, your body will lock up, causing you to go into fight or flight mode. 

Topics: Supportive Breaths Breathing Public Speaking Breathing Exercises
1 min read

6 Steps To help Land A Head Coaching Position

By Adam Gordon on Jan 11, 2021 5:00:00 PM

STEP 1: MAKE THE BIG TIME WHERE YOU ARE

Be a star in your current role. Leave your program better than when you found it. 

Topics: Head Coach 6Steps Coaching Position
2 min read

Milligan University Hires Alyssa Whitehead as Head Women's Soccer Coach

By Rising Coaches on Jan 8, 2021 9:01:14 AM

Milligan University has selected Alyssa Whitehead to serve as the next head coach of its women's soccer program. The national search for Milligan's Soccer Coach was led by Rising Coaches Search. 

Topics: Rising Coaches Search Opportunities Women's Soccer
2 min read

Presenting Confidently PART ONE

By Susanne McDonald on Jan 7, 2021 8:00:00 AM

When a basketball player walks up to the free throw line, they pause. They breathe. They may bounce the ball.  They don’t rush.  They are prepared.  It’s the same routine they’ve done thousands of times in practice. 

Topics: Free Throws Supportive Breaths Breathing Presenting Confidently
4 min read

Happy New Year: 3 tips to start the year right

By Michelle Young on Jan 5, 2021 12:00:00 PM

Happy New Year!

Hello 2021! The world must be truly thrilled to say goodbye to 2020.  With the exception of maybe Zoom and Amazon.  There’s something about saying twenty twenty-one that feels refreshing.  Say it a few more times: twenty twenty-one, twenty twenty-one. Let’s make 2021 our best year ever.

Topics: New Year 2021 fresh outlook New Year’s resolution Jon Gordon library book new skills

Rising Coaches is Featured in AdB Hoops Magazine

By Rising Coaches on Dec 30, 2020 8:15:33 AM

In an effort to build global relationships throughout the basketball community, Rising Coaches is excited to be featured in the latest issue of AdB Hoops Magazine. AdB Hoops Magazine is a world leader in coaching content and over the last 12 months has released eight outstanding magazines for coaches and the basketball community both in English and Spanish.  To access their catalog of magazines, visit AdB HOOPS DIGITAL today!

Topics: Rising Coaches adb hoops

Balancing Intellectual and Emotional Investments - Mike Sotsky

By Rising Coaches on Nov 26, 2020 8:32:10 PM

Both intellectual and emotional investments are important, but how are coaches supposed to balance them?

Topics: coaching
2 min read

Dr. Dish Extends Integrated Partnership with Rising Coaches

By Rising Coaches Article on Nov 25, 2020 1:33:35 PM

Dr. Dish Basketball, the premier provider of basketball training machines across the world is pleased to announce a fully integrated partnership with Rising Coaches, an inclusive membership based community for basketball coaches at all levels.

Topics: dr. dish Article partnership
2 min read

DEI Alliance announces "Next Up" Participants

By Rising Coaches on Nov 23, 2020 11:01:00 AM

Birmingham, AL. The Rising Coaches Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Alliance is pleased to announce the finalist for the “Next Up” Head Coaches Training Initiative. The organizations that make up the Rising Coaches DEI Alliance each nominated coaches for the opportunity to participate in a workshop with sports search consultant Katy Young Staudt. Katy Young Staudt was recently named a Top 40 under 40 in college basketball by The Athletic. “There are a number of rising stars in our business and I am honored to be able to provide advice and expertise to help advance their careers” said Staudt. “If we are truly going to impact the game in a positive way, we must take the right action steps to get there and helping prepare coaches to win the interview is one of the most important steps in the coaching search process." Staudt has led basketball searches for Texas Tech, Washington State, Cal Berkeley, Fairfield, UC Riverside, UT Tyler and Cleveland State just to name a few.

Topics: Article Rising Coaches dei Diversity Equity and Inclusion Next Up

Mississippi State AD John Cohen Speaks at DEI Alliance Meeting

By Rising Coaches on Nov 16, 2020 1:28:00 PM

At the inaugural meeting for the Rising Coaches DEI Alliance, Mississippi State Athletic Director John Cohen shared a few words about diversity. Cohen shared the story of how college athletics was the key factor in getting the state flag of Mississippi changed. Below is a short clip.

HubSpot Video
Topics: John Cohen Diversity Equity and Inclusion DEI Alliance Change

How to Define Your Individual Success with Tommy Amaker

By Rising Coaches on Nov 10, 2020 2:24:53 PM

Success is defined within yourself. Do not get wrapped up in what others think success is. Define things that truly matter to you.                                                                                 

HubSpot Video
Topics: coaching success

Ashton Pilz answers this Question: What is Coaching?

By Rising Coaches on Oct 30, 2020 11:11:20 AM

Coaching involves helping people find their passion and themselves. Focus on communication as well as Xs and Os. Fellowship is key. Hear their purpose and their story.

HubSpot Video
Topics: coaching relationships

Why Helping Others is Important - Caleb Kupa

By Rising Coaches on Oct 25, 2020 4:46:12 PM

"True fulfillment comes from helping others grow."                                                                                                

            

HubSpot Video
Topics: helping others

Brian Burton Breaks Down Leadership

By Rising Coaches on Oct 23, 2020 3:33:54 PM

"Spend time with yourself - the best leaders really understand themselves. I think to be great, you have to understand yourself and your gifts."

HubSpot Video
Topics: Leadership
2 min read

Rising Coaches Unveils Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Alliance

By Rising Coaches on Oct 12, 2020 1:01:15 PM

Birmingham, AL – Rising Coaches is proud to unveil the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Alliance. The mission of the organization is to use the platform as leaders in sports to impact changes for equality in our communities and our profession. Rising Coaches will join forces with the leadership from several minority and diversity groups to meet monthly on issues and initiatives.

Topics: Inclusion Alliance Diversity Equity
1 min read

Erin Sinnott Promoted to Director of Operations for Rising Coaches

By Rising Coaches on Oct 1, 2020 4:25:57 PM

Birmingham, AL.  Rising Coaches has announced that Erin Sinnott has been promoted to Director of Operations and Membership Services. “Erin has proven herself to be a huge asset to Rising Coaches. Not only does she help us execute at a higher level,” said Rising Coaches CEO Adam Gordon “but more importantly she dove right into our community, understands how it and why it works and has built meaningful relationships with our members.” Originally from Illinois, Sinnott played college basketball at the University of Evansville and Daemen College. She then served as a graduate assistant for the athletic department at Southern Illinois University, before joining Rising Coaches as an intern in March, 2020.

5 min read

The Rising Coaches Story - Part II - The Community

By Cory Van Dyke on Oct 1, 2020 11:07:07 AM

When Rising Coaches was founded in 2010, the organization wanted to establish a legacy that extended beyond the confines of its inner workings. In the last 10 years, Rising Coaches has taken the most pride in the work its members have accomplished.

Topics: Coaches Rising Coaches The Community Part #2
3 min read

Rising Coaches is Proud to Announce Rising Coaches Consulting

By Rising Coaches on Sep 21, 2020 5:44:18 PM

Birmingham, AL (9/10/2020) - Rising Coaches, a nationally-recognized membership-based community for basketball coaches and personnel, is proud to announce the launch of Rising Coaches Consulting. Rising Coaches Consulting will provide mentorship and career guidance for coaches at all levels, from youth basketball to the NBA. Its mentor roster boasts a combined 160-plus years of coaching and 35 coach of the year honors.

Topics: News Rising Coaches Consulting
4 min read

The Rising Coaches Story - Part #1 - The History

By Cory Van Dyke on Sep 19, 2020 7:11:06 AM

Every vision begins with a spark and a passion for a perceived problem. Throughout the months that Adam Gordon and Andy Farrell sat in their Clemson University office as graduate assistants, there were numerous conversations about the basketball coaching industry.

Topics: Coaches Rising Coaches The History Part #1

Alan Stein Explains How To Be Prepared for Adversity

By Rising Coaches on Sep 18, 2020 12:00:00 PM

"When you practice the small stuff, you get better at the big stuff."

Topics: Adversity Author Inspiration

Darnell Archey's Advice on Ups and Downs

By Rising Coaches on Sep 15, 2020 3:08:08 PM

Work as hard as you can in the moment and that job will come. Try to prepare yourself for the next job, but also be in the moment.

Topics: Opportunity Motivation coaching

Coach Butler Defining Core Values

By Rising Coaches on Sep 12, 2020 10:00:00 AM

Core in Latin actually means heart. What are those inside the heart values?

Topics: Basketball Plays Core Values

Michigan's NBA Transition Drill

By Rising Coaches on Sep 10, 2020 2:00:00 PM

Saddi Washington explains the dos and don'ts of this high-level, high-intensity drill that will gas your players and get them in shape.                                                                

Topics: Michigan Wolverines MBB Transition Drill

Non-Negotiables for Phil Beckner's Hires

By Rising Coaches on Sep 8, 2020 1:00:00 PM

If that younger guy that is substituting for me is lacking in any of these four areas, I cannot send them.

Topics: coaching skills

Nima Omidvar - Perseverance

By Rising Coaches on Sep 6, 2020 7:49:41 AM

I sent out 4,000 emails and only 5 people emailed me back. Two of those responses were from people that I had worked with.

This does not mean to stop and give up. This means keep going, even when everything is telling you not to.

HubSpot Video
Topics: How to get a coaching job
1 min read

Saddi Washington- Practice to Games

By Rising Coaches on Sep 3, 2020 9:08:06 AM

First hand proof that practicing really does translate to games.

Topics: Practice

Coach Carm On Vision

By Rising Coaches on Sep 1, 2020 2:00:00 PM

When you are fortunate enough to get your own program, know what you want. It is all about personality, roles, and knowing your people.                                                                                              

Topics: Head Coach Siena Saints Basketball
3 min read

From Hamptonville to Spartanburg, Heather Macy continues to reach new heights in Women’s Basketball

By Jordan Parker on Sep 1, 2020 10:33:16 AM

Located in an unincorporated part of Yadkin County is Hamptonville, NC. This small city is home to just 5901 people, with the average family size being three people. The city was named after colonel Henry Hampton, a member of the revolutionary army. This is where it all began for current Spartanburg Methodist College Women’s Basketball Head Coach Heather Macy grew up.

Topics: Relationship Building Leadership Networking Opportunity coaching success Impact Women's Basketball Heather Macy

Sean Sweeney - Pistons Post Player Drills

By Rising Coaches on Aug 27, 2020 2:25:41 PM

Sean Sweeney explains some player drills and emphasizes how important the technique is in the execution of the drills.                                                                                                          

HubSpot Video
Topics: Basketball Plays
7 min read

The Coaching Journey - Steve Smiley Northern Colorado

By Cory Van Dyke on Aug 26, 2020 7:32:22 AM

It was supposed to be a standard, joyous occasion in front of a handful of supporters and local media. Steve Smiley was being introduced as the new head coach for the University of Northern Colorado. 
Topics: How to get into Coaching NAIA Coaching Resources Steve Smiley Northern Colorado Northern State Junior College

Leonzo and the Value of 3v3

By Rising Coaches on Aug 25, 2020 9:43:57 AM

Coach Leonzo explains the importance of 3v3 and how it can help when implemented in practice.

Topics: Basketball Plays Practice

ANYA COVINGTON AND COVID-19

By Rising Coaches on Aug 19, 2020 2:19:35 PM

Anya Covington inspires us as she describes her perspective of this pandemic.                          

COACH DAR ON KNOWLEDGE

By Rising Coaches on Aug 18, 2020 11:22:51 AM

"No matter what happens, no one gets to take away your knowledge."                                        

Topics: coaching
9 min read

Establishing a Legacy In The Face Of Legends Mike Jones - Dematha HS

By Cory Van Dyke on Aug 18, 2020 7:14:46 AM

Morgan Wootten is arguably the top high school basketball coach of all time. In his 46 years at DeMatha Catholic High School, the legendary coach compiled 1,274 wins to just 192 losses, earning an induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000.
Topics: Basketball Plays How to get into Coaching coaching success Mike Jones DeMatha Catholic High School
8 min read

Bender Breeds Success in Coaching Journey

By Cory Van Dyke on Aug 15, 2020 2:55:43 PM

Everyone loves a good underdog story. It’s why a video feature on Wisconsin student manager and walk-on Tanner Bronson immediately grabbed the attention of Bryan Bender while watching a Badgers basketball game on the television.
Topics: How to get into Coaching bryan bender success
1 min read

COACH TOPPERT - 'KORVERS' IN PROGRESSIVE OFFENSE

By Rising Coaches on Aug 13, 2020 6:04:28 AM

"What we want to do with this stuff is trigger two to the ball."

Topics: Basketball Plays

SAMSON KAYODE - THE FIVE TRAITS HE LOOKS FOR IN PLAYERS

By Rising Coaches on Aug 11, 2020 12:56:10 PM

Samson Kayode tells what the five traits he looks for in a player.

Topics: Basketball Plays
2 min read

Second Social Justice Roundtable Brings Grassroots Into Focus

By Kevin Sweeney on Aug 10, 2020 3:23:26 PM

Even two months after murder of George Floyd brought conversations about social injustices and racial inequality to the forefront of the national dialogue, the college basketball community continues to come together to discuss issues that people in the profession face both inside and outside the game of basketball. After the first rendition of the event brought together more than 200 coaches for a night of conversation and growth, this month’s panel had an extra emphasis on those who work at the grassroots levels of basketball. Leaders in JUCO and prep basketball as well as representatives from the scouting community spoke for close to four hours about the ways they can continue to educate themselves, each other, and their programs about these important topics. The conversation was moderated by Brian Burton and Adam Gordon.

Topics: grassroots Kevin Sweeney Coaches for Social Justice Round Table Social Justice

DARNELL ARCHEY ON HOW TO GET BUY IN FOR YOUR PROGRAM

By Rising Coaches on Aug 10, 2020 5:38:39 AM

Darnell Archey explains how to get buy in for your program, no matter what position you are or what job you are, and the effects it has on the overall success of the program.                      

Topics: Buy in

BRYAN BENDER - BEING READY TO MOVE UP

By Rising Coaches on Aug 8, 2020 9:53:47 AM

"Be a master of your job that you have right now. Be TWO feet in." 

Topics: How to get a coaching job coaching

Chris Oliver - how to introduce new plays/sets

By Rising Coaches on Aug 7, 2020 9:54:40 AM

Chris Oliver gives advice on how to introduce new plays and sets in practice.                                         

Topics: Basketball Plays
1 min read

THE NIGHT LEAGUE WITH JARED BROWNRIDGE -DELAWARE BLUE COATS

By - Karra Labombarde on Aug 6, 2020 2:48:25 PM

Karra Labombarde sits down with Jared Brownridge in The Night League, to talk about how he got started with the game of basketball, his playing experience with the Delaware Blue Coats and the unknown of next season.

Topics: The Night Leauge Karra Labombarde Jared Brownridge Delaware Blue Coats Santa Clara MBB

Amanda Butler on who you are

By Rising Coaches on Aug 6, 2020 8:31:30 AM

Clemson's Amanda Butler explaining just how important self awareness is.                                             

Topics: Basketball Plays

Ty Ellis - Practice Plans

By Rising Coaches on Aug 5, 2020 10:48:45 AM

A few tips on organizing practice plans from Stockton King's Ty Ellis!                                                                                               

HubSpot Video
7 min read

2 FEET IN WITH ANDRE COOK - ST. EDWARD'S UNIVERSITY MEN'S BASKETBALL

By Cory Van Dyke on Aug 3, 2020 10:51:03 AM

There were some difficult nights for Andre Cook in the first few years as the head coach at St. Edward’s University, a Division II college in Austin, Texas. Those nights required some deep soul searching and self-reflection into what was going wrong.

Cook had come to Austin after a successful stint at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, New York. Over the course of five years, Cook had built Hudson Valley into a powerhouse program. During his tenure, the Watervliet, New York native tallied a 119-40 (.748) record, including a perfect 32-0 mark in conference in his final two seasons.

However, things weren’t so pretty when Cook made the trek halfway across the country to St. Edward’s University. In his first three seasons, the Hilltoppers went a combined 32-47 (.405).

“The people around there probably thought, ‘Man, this guy can’t coach,'” Cook said with a laugh. “Each level has been higher, and quite honestly, that’s what hurt me when I went to St. Edwards a little bit. I thought, ‘Oh man, it’s Division II basketball. I have to change some.’ I didn’t really stick to my guns.”

Fast forward eight years later and Cook has been the driving force behind one of the top Division II programs in the country. With winning seasons in seven of the past eight years and 30-4 and 27-4 records in the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 seasons respectively, Cook has placed his imprint on St. Edwards.

It’s all part of a journey that Cook set off on from a young age. By the time he was 14, the budding basketball player in Upstate New York knew he wanted to be a coach. After playing four years at Skidmore College and two years as a GA at Union College, Cook transitioned into teaching at Hudson Falls High School where he was also hired as the varsity basketball coach.
 

Cook helped lead a perpetual losing team into a consistent winner. In fact, there’s one championship banner in Hudson Falls’ gym today, and it’s from Cook’s time there. He also shot up the ranks within the high school, becoming the assistant principal and eventually being offered the school’s principal. It came with one stipulation that didn’t sit right with Cook.

“I got offered the principal job at 30 years old,” Cook said. “That’s when they said, the board of education said, ‘You can be the principal, but you can’t coach anymore.’ I’m like, ‘How did life go down this path so fast?’ Now people are coming to me saying here’s a six-figure job at 30 years old and no coaching. I had to take a step back and realize what I really wanted to do.”

Instead, Cook found out about a new head coaching opportunity about 50 miles south that would take him to the next level at Hudson Valley Community College. A good friend of Cook’s was the athletic director there, and after some discussions and going through the whole process, Cook was offered the job.

“We had a conversation and it was probably a $35,000 pay cut,” Cook said. “My daughter was just born, but I knew this was my opportunity, this was my shot. I left all the high school and administration behind. I took the job at Hudson Valley Community College.”

The risk paid off and Cook established himself over the five years with coach of the year honors and a trip to the semifinals of the NJCAA Division III national tournament in 2009.

“I went to Hudson Valley and I said it’s a good program that just needed rejuvenation and some energy,” Cook said. “I said this is how we're going to do it with some energy. We’re going to recruit. If you live within 60 miles of Hudson Valley and you’re not a Division I player, this is where you’re going to come to school. We got those guys.”

Years earlier, Cook formed a friendship with Ryan Marks, then head coach of Southern Vermont, when Marks was recruiting some of Cooks’ players. The duo stayed in touch as two young coaches in the profession. Marks eventually found himself at St. Edward’s University and invited Cook and one of his players down to Austin for a recruiting visit.

Little did Cook know that it was a trip that would alter the course of his life.

“I go for the two days or so on the recruiting trip and watch his team play,” Cook said. “It’s January in Austin and it’s 65 degrees outside. I’m thinking this place is great. Campus is beautiful, Austin is cool. 

“Probably a year and a half later, he gets the Texas Pan Am job… We’re having this conversation. I say, ‘You think I’d have any chance for your job?’ If he said no, I wouldn’t have even gotten the resume out. I’m in my hometown. People think we’re pretty smart. We’re winning a lot of games, but he said, ‘Yeah, Andre, I think you would. It’s about the right fit here.’”

Long story short, Cook became the next head coach at St. Edward’s University. After spending the entirety of his career in Upstate New York where he had constructed deep ties, Cook now found himself in the middle of Texas where he didn’t know a soul.
 
“Now, instead of being 60 miles from my hometown always and that includes college, graduate school, my first high school job, a JUCO job, I was never outside of 60 miles of my hometown,” Cook said. “Now we’re going 1,860 miles.
 
“In Albany everybody knows Andre Cook. My whole life was there. College basketball player, high school basketball player, everything happened there. Now, he takes Hudson Valley to No. 1 in the country. Back-to-back years we had that post. Now you’re in this place where nobody knows you and you’re getting your butt kicked.”

In those first few years, Cook aimlessly traveled around Texas and never made any great connections along the way while recruiting. He used his regional connections back in New York to recruit some players to join him in Austin from the Empire State, but it wasn’t a lasting model.

“I remember saying to the athletic director, ‘We have to go get more four-year guys who are going to buy into it instead of trying to piecemeal it.’” Cook said. “A couple guys from New York, a couple junior college guys, we weren’t building a team. We weren’t building a program. We weren’t building a culture. We were just throwing whatever against the wall and seeing whatever stuck.”

Following an 18-14 record in year four at St. Edward’s, Cook made wholesale changes to his recruiting philosophy. Cook and Co. focused right in their own backyard in the Austin and San Antonio area. This homegrown talent formed the basis of a few rebuilding years where Cook could begin to learn from his past mistakes and set off on the right path this time.

“The AD said, ‘I believe in you. I believe in what you’re doing.’ I said, ‘We’re going to take a step back before we go forward.’ That year and the years 13-14, we were 10-16, but we started three freshmen,” Cook said. “We were getting beat, but we were moving in the right direction. We finally left the dock. Maybe no one else saw it, but I did… I felt like we’re moving. We’re not just a mish mosh. I had a vision and since then the last six years we are averaging 22 wins per year.”

With this newfound focus on the local recruiting, Cook also used his resources, such as assistant coach Taylor Land who played in Australia, and expanded his outlook overseas. Just in the past few seasons, players from Australia, New Zealand, Denmark, and Brazil have found a home in Texas. This amalgamation of international and local talent has produced a 57-8 record over the past two campaigns.

It’s the ebb and flow of coaching that produces the highest of highs and lowest of lows. Through it all, Cook has consistently demanded hard work on the court and a few laughs in the time in between with his players.

“I heard Tom Brennan, the old coach at Vermont, say, ‘I don’t want to recruit guys who can’t laugh at themselves.’ I want to have some fun,” Cook said. “When it’s time to work, it’s time to work. We’ve got guys like that that understand my door is open. I have compassion. I can talk to them about a lot of different things. Now, I need you. We’re on the court now and it’s not always sunshine and rainbows on the court. I’m not always going to tell you you’re wonderful, but they also know it’s never personal.

“I think guys get it and want to be a part of it. I think if you saw our team and saw our roster, I don’t know if we’d pass the eye test of a team that would average 87 points per game, but we do and we play fast and we play a fun style.”

Cook has heard his fair share of offers to move onto different places over the years, but he’s still laser-focused on the goal ahead at St. Edward’s because of the advice from an old coaching friend.

“If you don’t have two feet in, you’re just not going to do well. I always heeded that advice,” Cook said. “If you only have 1.9 feet in, you’re going to lose. We have to have both feet fully in.”

Most importantly, Cook and his family are content in Austin. He speaks with a tone of appreciation for all the schools that took a chance on him while the rest of his journey remains to be scene.

“I do know this, when I come home everybody is happy in my house,” Cook said. “My wife is happy here in Austin. My daughter is happy going to her school and my son is. Don’t try to be happier than happy, but if you have both feet in and have the right place, right time, right circumstances, maybe something else comes up and we’ll clearly look into it if it does.”
Topics: Networking coaching Andre Cook
1 min read

Continuing The Conversation with Jenny Fischer & Marlon Stewart

By Jenny Fischer on Jul 29, 2020 10:51:52 AM

Jenny Fischer sits down with Oregon State Men's Basketball Coach Marlon Stewart to continue the conversation on social injustice and racial inequality. 

Stewart, a native of Mercer Island, Washington started his coaching career as a video coordinator at the University of California from 2008-2012. After the 2012 season, Stewart served as the technology and scouting assistant at the University of Virginia from 2012-2014.

 

Topics: jenny fischer marlon stewart Continuing The Conversation Oregon State MBB

Leonzo and The Dribble Drive

By Rising Coaches on Jul 28, 2020 1:58:55 PM

Coach John Leonzo explaining player movement in dribble drive offense.                                                                                                    

Topics: Dribble Drive
1 min read

The Night Leauge with Michael Fly - Florida Gulf Coast

By - Karra Labombarde on Jul 27, 2020 5:59:33 PM

Karra Labombarde sits down with Michael Fly in the first ever episode of The Night Leauge, to talk the profession of coaching and how Coach Fly made his way through this difficult industry. Coach Fly is entering his third year as the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Flordia Gulf Coast after spending seven years as an assistant coach.

Topics: Michael Fly How to get into Coaching The Night Leauge Karra Labombarde

Scott Savor - Questions

By Rising Coaches on Jul 27, 2020 7:28:46 AM

Scott Savor on questions and how to get people to actually listen to you.                                                          

Topics: Head Coach
8 min read

The Impact of a Head Coach - Quinton Ferrell Presbyterian Men's Basketball

By Cory Van Dyke on Jul 26, 2020 4:14:44 PM

Oftentimes our life comes to a crossroads where we have to choose to go one way or another. For Quinton Ferrell, he arrived at that point right after college. 

Jay Triano - Preparation and Opportunity

By Rising Coaches on Jul 24, 2020 10:21:00 AM

Jay Triano discusses when preparation meets opportunity.                                                                                                                        

Topics: Opportunity

Rob Johnson -  Fundamentals and Player Development

By Rising Coaches on Jul 23, 2020 10:16:35 AM

Rob Johnson touches on fundamentals and player development.                                                                                                                             

HubSpot Video
Topics: Basketball Plays coaching
1 min read

Continuing the Conversation with Jenny Fischer and Anya Covington

By Jenny Fischer on Jul 22, 2020 2:25:15 PM

Jenny Fischer sits down with Anya Covington to continue the conversation on social injustice and racial inequality.Anya B. Covington is a speaker, advocate and trainer, focused on rethinking the diversity, equity and inclusion space. A basketball standout at the University of Wisconsin, she played both collegiately and professionally before coaching athletes at the Division-1 Collegiate and Professional coaching level for over a decade.

Topics: jenny fischer blm anya covington

Tommy Strine Breaking Down Princeton's Offense

By Rising Coaches on Jul 22, 2020 8:43:57 AM

Video:                                                                                                                                                  

HubSpot Video
Topics: Basketball Plays

Tony Pujol on Knowing Your Why

By Rising Coaches on Jul 21, 2020 11:05:26 AM

                                                                                                                                         

Topics: coaching

Marlon Stewart: Recruiting 101

By Rising Coaches on Jul 20, 2020 2:00:06 PM

                                                                                                                               

Topics: Recruiting
9 min read

Student Managers Carve Path Into Coaching

By Cory Van Dyke on Jul 17, 2020 6:04:15 PM

 
Patrick Ewing, Johnny Dawkins, Bobby Hurley, and Tony Bennett among others all got their start as a head coach in college basketball after an illustrious playing career. However, that’s not the case for most coaches.
Topics: Relationship Building Networking Different Paths How to get into Coaching Article Adam Cohen Mitch Vanya

The Wise Words of Coach John Shulman

By Rising Coaches on Jul 16, 2020 4:15:17 PM

                                                                                                                                           

Topics: John Shulman Speakers video
1 min read

Nima Omidvar - George Washington

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on Jul 10, 2020 7:00:00 AM

Jul 10, 2020

Topics: Basketball Plays grassroots Nima Omidvar

Podcast: Andre Gray - UNC Greensboro

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on Jul 3, 2020 9:30:45 AM

Topics: Basketball Plays Andre Gray UNC Greensboro
3 min read

Coaches Come Together for Night of Conversations, Change

By Kevin Sweeney on Jun 29, 2020 12:57:43 PM

By Kevin Sweeney

Topics: Kevin Sweeney Coaches for Social Justice Article Vince Walden Adam Gordon Brian Burton

Podcast: Todd Golden - Univ of San Francisco Head Coach

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on Jun 26, 2020 8:00:00 AM

Topics: Basketball Plays Todd Golden San Francisco mbb
1 min read

Todd Golden - Univ of San Francisco

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on Jun 25, 2020 7:41:00 AM

Topics: Todd Golden San Francisco mbb coaches Coalition

Member Spotlight with Omega Tandy and Jon Plefka

By Rising Coaches on Jun 24, 2020 3:41:37 PM

"Cultural Intelligence" Panel hosted by BOSCA - FULL VIDEO

By Rising Coaches on Jun 23, 2020 7:16:19 PM

Topics: Front Page Stan Johnson dr kiki baker barnes bosca MOAA

Podcast: Darnell Archey University of Mobile head coach, former Butler player and assistant

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on Jun 22, 2020 1:02:48 PM

Topics: Basketball Plays darnell archey mobile mens basketball butler mbb

Rising Coaches Weekly Digest

By Rising Coaches on Jun 21, 2020 6:12:56 PM

 

Darnell Archey - University of Mobile

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on Jun 18, 2020 7:44:00 AM

Topics: Basketball Plays darnell archey mobile mens basketball butler mbb Brad Stevens

Kelly Graves - Oregon WBB

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on Jun 12, 2020 6:07:00 PM

Topics: Basketball Plays kelly graves

Podcast: Dana Pump is one of the most influential people in basketball over the last 30 years

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on Jun 8, 2020 12:50:03 PM

Topics: Basketball Plays dana pump grassroots

Podcast: Mahmoud Abdelfattah - RGV Vipers Head Coach on his faith, and his journey through coaching

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on May 31, 2020 2:27:21 PM

Topics: Basketball Plays

Schedule Smarter Panel hosted by Colton Houston of HD Intelligence (FREE REPLAY)

By Rising Coaches on May 27, 2020 6:53:33 AM

Topics: Analytics

This Week on the Rising Coaches Network...

By Rising Coaches on May 27, 2020 6:40:57 AM

 

Podcast: Nancy Lieberman - Hall of Famer, Big 3 Champion and Coach of the Year, and 1st Female head coach in the GLeague

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on May 22, 2020 8:15:00 AM

Topics: Basketball Plays Nancy Lieberman

Dr. Dish offers Discounts to Rising Coaches members

By Rising Coaches on May 20, 2020 5:46:51 AM

Dr. Dish has partnered with Rising Coaches to offer it's members significant discounts on their products. Before you purchase your next Dr. Dish product mention "Rising Coaches" and receive $300 off Dr. Dish Rebel, All-Star, and CT models. Also, make sure to check out the NEW Dr. Dish Home machine which is perfect for these times. Visit drdishbasketball.com for details.

Topics: dr. dish advertisement

This Week on the Rising Coaches Network

By Rising Coaches on May 19, 2020 7:15:00 AM

 

Podcast: At Just 30 years old, Austin Claunch already has 2 season of DI head coaching experience under his belt

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on May 18, 2020 7:10:02 PM

Quotes: Tim Kaine - Murray State

By Rising Coaches on May 11, 2020 11:54:40 AM

 

Topics: Quotes

Free Networking Session this Friday at 6pm CST Presented by Dr. Dish

By Rising Coaches on May 6, 2020 6:16:32 AM

Rising Coaches will host another Free Networking Session this Friday thanks in large part to our sponsor Dr. Dish.  You will have an opportunity to meet and create genuine relationships with coaches from all different levels.  Fill out this form for registration info

Podcast: The Right Fit with South Alabama Athletic Director Dr. Joel Erdmann

By The Right Fit Podcast on May 5, 2020 6:55:48 PM

Topics: Basketball Plays The right fit Athletic Director Joel Erdmann hiring

Podcast: LIVE Tim Kaine - Murray State

By Rising Coaches Podcasts on May 2, 2020 2:14:41 PM

Topics: Basketball Plays Murray State Racers MBB tim kaine

Quotes: Pat Skerry - Towson "We Have to Continue to Improve"

By Rising Coaches on Apr 30, 2020 3:09:12 PM

 

Topics: Quotes pat Skerry towson mbb improve