Two Coaches & a Coffee

In this episode of 'Two Couches and a Coffee', Jason and Darren discuss Darren's new role as Director of Performance at Juventus, the importance of networking in career advancement, and the challenges of transitioning to a new culture in sports management. They emphasize the significance of supporting young practitioners and the philosophy of prioritizing the mission and the people in front of you. The conversation also touches on recent changes in high-performance roles within the AFL and the educated risks involved in performance decisions. Takeaways Darren's new role at Juventus represents a significant career shift. Networking plays a crucial role in career advancement. It's important to prioritize the mission and the people over personal ambition. Supporting young practitioners is essential for their growth. Cultural adaptation is a key challenge in new roles. Educated risks can lead to successful performance decisions. The importance of mentorship in professional development. Darren's transition highlights the evolving landscape of sports management. Maintaining strong relationships is vital in the sports industry. The podcast aims to inspire mid-career professionals. Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back and New Beginnings05:28 The Importance of Networking10:57 Putting the Club First18:27 Reflections on Team Decisions Sponsored by SpeedSig...answering the rehab and performance questions being missed everyday!

 Summary In this conversation, Jason Weber and Darren discuss various aspects of sports performance, focusing on injury management, psychological factors affecting athletes, and the balance between training and game exposure. They explore the challenges of preparing players for high-stakes games, the importance of mental readiness, and the evolving strategies in injury prevention and management in sports like NFL and AFL. Takeaways Players need to be mentally prepared for finals football. Injury management requires careful consideration of player readiness. Psychological factors can significantly impact performance in landmark games. Balancing training loads is crucial to prevent injuries. Athlete confidence plays a key role in recovery and performance. Understanding the specific demands of the sport is essential for training. Effective communication with athletes enhances their performance. Game exposure is important for maintaining rhythm in training. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Game Preparations02:04 Injury Management and Player Readiness09:57 Psychological Factors in Performance17:04 Injury Trends in NFL and College Football

Summary In this episode of 'Two Coaches and a Coffee', Jason Weber and Darren Burgess discuss the excitement surrounding the AFL finals, the complexities of managing player injuries in high-stakes games, and the importance of data in decision-making. They explore the balance between player readiness and performance, and how coaches can navigate career opportunities in the sports management field. Takeaways Injury management is crucial in high-stakes games. Evaluating player readiness involves both data and contextual experience. Data should complement, not replace, coaching experience. Career opportunities in sports management require proactive networking. Understanding player performance metrics is essential for coaches. The pressure to win can complicate injury decisions. Communication between coaches and medical staff is vital. Players' historical performance can inform injury management decisions. Respectful outreach can open doors in sports careers. Chapters 00:00 AFL Finals Excitement01:47 Injury Management Strategies09:31 Evaluating Player Readiness15:20 Career Opportunities in Sports Management Do you like the way we share our experiences? Would you like to learn more? Check out www.oldbullperformance.com 

Summary In this conversation, Jason Weber and Darren discuss the complexities of athlete training, the role of personal trainers, and the importance of communication between players and coaches. They explore the concept of misappropriated load in training and the zealot phase that many strength and conditioning coaches experience. The discussion emphasizes the value of generalists in sports science and the need for effective communication to enhance athlete performance. Takeaways Cultural differences influence how professionals are addressed in sports. Personal trainers often highlight successes but may not disclose injuries. Communication between players and coaches is crucial for effective training. Misappropriated load can lead to injuries if not managed properly. The zealot phase in coaching can lead to overconfidence and noise. Generalists in sports science can provide a broader perspective than specialists. Players should disclose external training to their clubs for better management. Effective communication can enhance relationships between private practitioners and clubs. Athletes may unintentionally mismanage their training loads. The importance of intuition in coaching comes from experience, not just instinct. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Cultural Insights01:48 The Role of Personal Trainers in Athlete Development05:31 Communication Between Athletes and Coaches09:03 Understanding Misappropriated Load14:42 The Zealot Phase in Strength and Conditioning18:32 The Importance of Generalists in Coaching Do you like the way we share our experiences? Would you like to learn more? Check out www.oldbullperformance.com 

Summary In this episode of 'Two Coaches and a Coffee', Jason Weber and Darren Burgess discuss the complexities of player transfers, the pressure on coaches and performance staff, the importance of data in player management, and the impact of coaching changes. They also delve into the significance of networking for career development and the balance between data and human observation in monitoring player performance. The conversation concludes with philosophical insights on coaching and the challenges faced in the sports industry. Takeaways There's significant pressure to get injured players ready for transfer. Biology cannot be ignored in player recovery. The psychology of players affects their performance and readiness. Data ownership should lie with the players. Networking is crucial for career longevity in sports. Coaching changes can disrupt team dynamics and player performance. Monitoring players requires both data and human observation. Understanding player habits can indicate their mental state. The importance of communication between players and coaches is paramount. Philosophical insights can enhance coaching practices. Chapters 00:00 The Pressure of Player Transfers04:40 The Psychological Impact on Injured Players09:28 Data Ownership and Player Transfers13:55 Navigating Coaching Changes18:35 The Importance of Observation in Coaching  Check Out The most "in the trenches" mentoring and PD experience... check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE.

Description: Join hosts Jason Weber and Darren Burgess as they delve into the intense world of elite sports. From the passion of local rivalries to the harsh realities of contract renewals, they share personal insights and advice for aspiring professionals. Discover how to handle career transitions, the importance of maintaining a strong network, and the value of humility in high-pressure environments. Key Topics: The intensity of local sports rivalries Navigating contract renewals and career transitions The importance of emotional resilience and networking Tips for crafting a standout resume and acing interviews 00:00 Introduction and Rivalry in AFL 08:12 Emotional Connection to Jobs and Identity 20:21 Interview Tips and Building Confidence Check Out For more on leadership and technical development check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE.  

Summary In this conversation, Jason Weber and Darren discuss the current state of the AFL, focusing on the scrutiny faced by high performance staff during injury crises. They explore the dynamics of job security in the sports industry, the importance of monitoring and injury prevention, and the pressures from external narratives. The discussion emphasizes the need for practitioners to stick to their processes while navigating challenges in a complex environment. Takeaways High performance staff face intense scrutiny during injury crises. Injuries in sports are multifactorial and cannot be attributed to one cause. Job security in the sports industry is volatile, especially during crises. Young practitioners have opportunities to advance in their careers during industry shifts. Monitoring player performance is crucial for injury prevention – be specific about the metrics you use and detecting change. External narratives can impact the perception of high performance staff. Maintaining processes is essential despite external pressures. Networking and communication among professionals can provide support during challenging times. Chapters02:32 High Performance Staff and Injury Scrutiny05:12 Industry Dynamics and Job Security07:48 Crisis Management in Sports10:10 Monitoring and Injury Prevention12:49 Navigating External Pressures15:15 Conclusion and Key Takeaways Check Out For more on leadership and technical development check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE.

Summary In this episode, Jason Weber discusses the significance of personal philosophy in coaching, the importance of building relationships and trust with athletes, and the need for coaches to develop their skills over time. He emphasizes that coaching is not just about imparting knowledge but also about understanding and connecting with athletes on a personal level. The conversation highlights the journey of self-discovery and the continuous learning process that comes with being a coach. Takeaways Do it for yourself. You need to copy someone. Don't be afraid to not be liked. Your job is to keep them on the path. You can change their world. Don't rush to success. Make connections. You need to be concise, clear, and unique. Your work should reflect your history. You are put in a position of trust. Chapters 00:00 Creating for Yourself: The True Essence of Art 09:51 The Dangers of Imitation in Pursuit of Success Check Out For more on leadership and technical development check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE. The book I mentioned in the Podcast was "Steal like and artist" which is an easy read but packs a great message.

Summary In this episode of 'Two Coaches and a Coffee', hosts Jason Weber and Darren discuss the evolving landscape of coaching, the importance of side hustles in the sports community, and the rising trends in sports injuries, particularly focusing on tendon health. They are joined by guest Alec Buttfield, who shares insights on load management in baseball and the challenges of quantifying hidden loads in AFL. The conversation delves into the impact of fatigue on performance and the necessity of embracing chaos in training to better prepare athletes for the unpredictable nature of sports.  Takeaways The concept of side hustles is prevalent in the coaching community. Injuries are becoming more common, particularly Achilles injuries. Tendon health is often overlooked in training regimens. Load management is crucial in preventing injuries in sports. Hidden loads in AFL are not adequately quantified. Fatigue significantly affects athletic performance. Embracing chaos in training can lead to better injury prevention. Understanding the mechanics of fatigue is essential for coaches. Athletes need to be prepared for unpredictable situations in games. Effective training requires a balance between control and chaos.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Coaching Dynamics 02:33 The Rise of Side Hustles in Coaching 05:18 Injury Trends in Sports: A Focus on Tendons 07:45 Guest Introduction: Insights from Alec Buttfield 10:42 Load Management in Baseball vs. AFL 13:04 Hidden Loads and Injury Prevention 15:53 Fatigue and Performance: The Hidden Risks 18:41 Embracing Chaos in Training 21:28 Conclusion and Future Discussions Check Out For more on leadership and technical development check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE.

Summary In this podcast, Jason Weber discusses the intricacies of athletic performance and the importance of individualized training programs. He emphasizes the need for coaches to understand the unique characteristics of each athlete and how technology, like SpeedSig, can aid in this understanding. Insights from renowned coach Stu McMillan are highlighted, showcasing a coaching philosophy that prioritizes athlete individuality over a one-size-fits-all approach. The discussion also touches on the balance of variability in training and the ultimate goal of improving athlete performance while preventing injuries. Takeaways Understanding athlete individuality is crucial for effective coaching. Technology like SpeedSig can enhance athlete analysis. Coaches should avoid forcing athletes into rigid training models. Variability in training must be balanced to prevent injuries. Tailored training programs lead to better performance outcomes. Stu McMillan's coaching philosophy emphasizes understanding each athlete. Injury prevention is as important as performance improvement. Effective coaching requires continuous education and adaptation. Athletes should be trained based on their unique movement patterns. The ultimate goal is to help athletes succeed in their respective sports. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Individual Movement Patterns 12:27 The Role of Coaches in Movement Optimization 12:38 Understanding the Athlete's Needs 15:16 Philosophical Approaches to Coaching Check Out For more on leadership and technical development check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE.

Summary In this conversation, Jason Weber discusses the complexities of asymmetry in athletic recovery, emphasizing the importance of understanding an athlete's unique signature and the role of technology in measuring performance. He critiques traditional methods of assessing recovery and advocates for a data-driven approach to rehabilitation, particularly through his company, SpeedSig. The discussion highlights the need for accurate measurements to inform recovery strategies and improve athletic performance. Takeaways Asymmetry in athletes does not always indicate a problem. Understanding an athlete's signature is crucial for recovery. Technology can enhance the assessment of athletic performance. Data-driven approaches are essential in rehabilitation. Symmetry is not the ultimate goal in athletic recovery. Injury recovery should focus on returning to the athlete's original state. Measuring running mechanics is vital for effective rehabilitation. Athletes may have asymmetries that do not affect performance. Effective communication among staff is key in rehabilitation. SpeedSig provides valuable insights into athletic performance. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Asymmetry in Return to Play 09:59 The Role of Pre-Injury Symmetry 10:13 Understanding Asymmetry in Athletes 15:36 Rehabilitation Insights and Speed Measurement Check Out For more on leadership and technical development check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE.  

Summary In this episode of 'Two Coaches and a Coffee', Jason Weber and Darren Burgess discuss various aspects of sports coaching, focusing on themes of humility, team dynamics, mental resilience, and the importance of training volume versus intensity. They share insights from their experiences in the AFL and with the Socceroos, emphasizing the challenges athletes face, including travel and performance pressure. The conversation highlights the significance of mental toughness and resilience in achieving success in professional sports. Takeaways • Humility is essential in coaching and personal growth. • Team dynamics can be affected by significant losses. • Physical training alone may not address mental challenges. • Mental resilience is crucial for athletes after defeats. • Training volume should not be overlooked in favour of intensity. • Professional athletes often face immense travel challenges. • The Socceroos displayed professionalism in their training. • Building resilience can come from enduring hardship. • Athletes need to be aware of their mental state during training. • Coaching requires a balance of physical and mental preparation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Humility Discussion 05:58 Mental Resilience in Sports 11:53 Socceroos Preparation and Professionalism 18:00 Conclusion and Reflections on Resilience Check Out For more on leadership and technical development check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE.  

Summary In this episode, Jason Weber discusses the critical role of humility in leadership within high-performance sports. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, communication, and mentorship among professionals in the field. Jason shares insights on how to effectively work with others, the significance of sharing knowledge, and the need for humility in leadership roles. He encourages listeners to bring their intellect and experience while also being open to learning from others, ultimately fostering a more cohesive and effective working environment. Takeaways Humility is essential in performance sports leadership. Everyone is a middle manager in their career. Effective communication is key to sharing ideas. Leadership should engage and uplift others. Mentorship is crucial for professional development. Avoid the power game; work collaboratively. Learning from past mistakes is vital for growth. Use your voice to build, not divide. Listening is as important as speaking. Strive to be the best version of yourself. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Humility in Leadership 09:11 Bridging the Gap Between Professions Check Out For more on leadership and technical development check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE.  

Professional coaches face immense pressure from above, with owners and board members often questioning decisions without understanding the complex factors involved. We explore strategies for managing these challenging relationships and discuss new approaches to measuring athletic workload across different competitive environments.• Building a strong career in sports coaching requires significant work and sacrifice• Owners can create inappropriate pressure, as seen when Nottingham Forest's owner berated their coach publicly• Presenting to boards is challenging when they lack the technical understanding to grasp complex performance data• Establishing clear processes and KPIs from day one creates a foundation for communication• "Drip feeding" education to leadership during non-crisis periods builds understanding• Not all game minutes are equal - 60 minutes in a top-tier match is physically different than in a lower-stakes game• Future load management may combine linear measurements with analysis of body positioning and mechanical stress• Developing metrics for contested efforts helps distinguish between different types of physical demands Check Out For more on leadership and technical development check out OLDBULL PERFORMANCE.

Drop us a message and let us know what you'd like us to discuss!Every sports season has a rhythm—the excitement of early games, the midseason grind, and the intensity of the final stretch. In this candid conversation, two veteran coaches unpack the challenges of navigating that critical middle phase when, as they perfectly describe it, you're "in the back straight, already full of acid" like a 400-meter runner realizing there's still a long way to go.Drawing from decades of experience working with elite athletes across multiple sports, our coaches share practical wisdom on player management during this demanding period. They explore the critical distinction between reducing training volume while maintaining intensity—a strategy that has kept stars like Patrick Dangerfield performing at their peak despite advancing years. Rather than prescribing universal approaches, they emphasize understanding each athlete's unique physical profile: "The key to managing players through these tough periods is knowing what they're like at a deep level. Are they speed-oriented? Are they distance guys?"The conversation takes a refreshingly honest turn when the coaches discuss their own strategies for maintaining mental and physical wellbeing during grueling seasons. From Transcendental Meditation to personalized recovery routines, they share what works while cautioning against blindly following trending wellness practices. Most poignantly, they address the challenge of protecting family life amid professional demands: "Don't leave your best at work," one coach urges, acknowledging that balancing elite sport with personal life requires intentionality.Whether you're a coach, athlete, or professional navigating your own version of the midseason grind, this episode offers valuable perspective on sustaining performance while preserving what matters most. How do you maintain intensity when fatigue sets in? What personal practices keep you centered during demanding periods? We'd love to hear your thoughts!SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Drop us a message and let us know what you'd like us to discuss!SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Drop us a message and let us know what you'd like us to discuss!Darren Burgess and Jason Weber examine the personal cost of high-paying jobs in sports performance and why professional standards should never waver regardless of who you're coaching.• AFL running data shows interesting trends in team performance• High-paying positions in sport come with significant personal costs• Work-life balance on social media often presents a deceptive snapshot• Career progression may require sacrifices early on to establish yourself• Many high-performance managers currently live away from their families• The attitude toward coaching should remain consistent across all levels• Working with Paralympic athletes provides valuable learning opportunities• Good coaches should be adaptable to any athlete who trusts them• Belief that you can only coach "elite" athletes is a problematic mindset• Treat all athletes with the same professionalism regardless of their level• Skills don't magically improve with "better" athletes – true expertise works at any levelSpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Drop us a message and let us know what you'd like us to discuss!After an unplanned hiatus, Burgo and Jase Weber dive straight into one of the most practical yet rarely discussed topics in sports performance: contract negotiations for strength and conditioning coaches. Drawing from decades of combined experience across multiple elite sporting environments worldwide, they unpack the essential elements that should be considered when putting pen to paper.<br><br>The conversation provides a masterclass in understanding exit clauses, intellectual property protections, and creative compensation packages beyond base salary. They share candid stories about their own negotiation experiences, from accepting baseline entry positions to crafting complex arrangements that protected their entrepreneurial interests. The practical advice spans career stages - from desperate first-jobbers willing to work weekends without question to seasoned professionals who can command specific terms. Beyond contracts, the duo explores the delicate science of tendon injury rehabilitation, cautioning against the common trap of returning athletes too quickly when strength measures look promising but elastic components remain compromised. Their insights from working with elite and Paralympic athletes highlight how the human body finds alternative movement strategies that can mask underlying issues. What makes this episode particularly valuable is its blend of tactical career advice and scientific rehabilitation insights, delivered with the casual authenticity of two veterans sharing hard-earned wisdom. Whether you're negotiating your first industry position or looking to better structure your next career move, this conversation provides a framework for thinking beyond base salary to create arrangements that truly serve your professional development.<br><br>Have you negotiated creative elements into your coaching contracts? We'd love to hear your experiences and what you wish you'd known earlier in your career path!SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Drop us a message and let us know what you'd like us to discuss!Ever wondered what really happens when professional athletes face extreme heat during competition? Or how a simple change in playing surface can derail weeks of careful preparation? This candid conversation between two high-performance coaches pulls back the curtain on the realities of managing elite athletes during the demanding first round of the AFL season.From thermoregulation strategies in 35°C+ temperatures to the surprising science behind effective cooling methods, our coaches share practical insights rarely discussed publicly. They break down why Marvel Stadium's artificial surface consistently leads to increased injury rates and how the physical transition between venues presents unique challenges for players and performance staff alike.The discussion takes a fascinating turn when examining a rare public admission from a player claiming their team had "a clear athletic advantage" over their opponents. This leads to a deeper exploration of preparation methods, questioning whether teams focusing heavily on running metrics might be neglecting the crucial metabolic conditioning that comes from repeated contest work. The coaches advocate for measuring and deliberately overloading contact exposure in training—sharing innovative approaches to quantifying these elements using GPS and accelerometer data.Professional development emerges as a passionate topic for both coaches, who challenge conventional wisdom about career advancement. Their message is refreshingly straightforward: coach anyone who will listen, regardless of level, and learn through direct application rather than waiting for formal education opportunities. "Go and take a team and make your mistakes there" stands as perhaps the most valuable advice for aspiring sports practitioners.Whether you're a professional in the field or simply fascinated by what happens behind the scenes in elite sport, this episode offers rare insights into the practical challenges faced by those tasked with preparing athletes for competition at the highest level. Subscribe now to join our growing community of like-minded professionals and enthusiasts exploring the art and science of performance.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Drop us a message and let us know what you'd like us to discuss!The coaches discuss managing ambitious staff in high-performance environments and the challenge of balancing career progression with proper skill development. They explore approaches for developing both expertise and the ability to effectively manage multidisciplinary teams.• Young coaches often want to advance quickly without developing adequate depth of knowledge• Understanding mechanical principles behind training methods is essential before advancing• Expand knowledge beyond your specialty by spending time with practitioners from other disciplines• The most valuable professional development comes from extended time with experienced practitioners, not just courses• Success requires making yourself uncomfortable – studying when others are relaxing• Present your ideas and methodologies to receive feedback and refine your approach• Embrace honest review and criticism as essential components of improvement• Build empathy by learning the language and perspectives of other disciplines• Social media can be a platform for sharing knowledge and connecting with other professionalsSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com