First Down by CoachTools

CoachTools

First Down by CoachTools is a resource for high school and college coaches to learn from experienced professionals about their careers and advice. First Down host, Justin Titchenell, interviews the top names in high school and college coaching.

  1. 16.08.2024

    143. Surround Yourself with WINNERS with Rob Bryan

    In this episode of "First Down by CoachTools," Justin sits down with Rob Bryan, the head football coach at Gloucester City High School, to discuss his impressive coaching journey. Rob shares his experiences from starting his career at Temple University and transferring to Rutgers, where he served as a student assistant. He then moved on to become a defensive coordinator at Gateway High School and Hatton Township High School. Despite contemplating a break in 2016, Rob was offered a position at Haddon Heights High School, where he joined the defense in 2017 and was named head coach the following year. In 2018, he achieved a dream by accepting the head coach position at Gloucester City High School, his childhood home and the place where he played football. Throughout their conversation, Justin and Rob delve into the valuable lessons Rob has learned over his career, including the importance of resilience, critical thinking, and simplicity in coaching strategies. They emphasize the significance of surrounding oneself with the right people who share the same vision and maintaining a growth mindset by constantly reevaluating and adapting strategies according to the team's strengths and weaknesses. Rob also highlights the importance of preparation and evaluation throughout the season to ensure the team's success and shares his belief in the transformative power of football in preparing young players for life's challenges. Join us for an inspiring episode filled with insights on coaching, growth, and the impact of football. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon for more enlightening episodes!

    18 Min.
  2. 28.07.2024

    141. Manny Rojas on Blue Collar Mentality in Coaching

    In this episode of "First Down by CoachTools," we have the pleasure of talking with Coach Manny Rojas, the defensive coordinator at the University of Delaware. Coach Rojas takes us through his impressive career journey, from his first job at the University of Delaware to his current role as defensive coordinator. He shares the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way, emphasizing the importance of preparation, physicality, and toughness in his coaching approach. Coach Rojas offers insightful advice for young coaches, highlighting the need for patience, a focus on the present, and the reality of potentially facing low pay and long hours. We dive into his transition from a player to a coach, the challenges he faced, and how he navigated his career under the guidance of experienced mentors. Returning to Newark in the spring of 2020, Coach Rojas has transformed Delaware's defense into one of the best in the country, leading the program back into the FCS Playoffs. Under his leadership, the Blue Hens have consistently ranked among the top in scoring defense, passing defense, and total defense, with multiple players earning All-CAA and All-American honors. Throughout his 15-year coaching career, Coach Rojas has been part of seven conference championships and five NCAA playoff appearances. His previous stints include coaching at Liberty University, the University of Richmond, and Lafayette College, where he successfully revamped defensive schemes and mentored numerous players to achieve All-Conference honors. Join us as Coach Manny Rojas shares his wealth of experience, coaching strategies, and mindset that have contributed to his success. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice to elevate your coaching game. Tune in to hear more about Coach Rojas's inspiring journey and the principles that drive his approach to building a formidable defense. Don't miss this insightful conversation on "First Down by CoachTools."

    14 Min.
  3. 26.07.2024

    140. Jack Dustin on Optimizing Strength Training for Sports

    Welcome to another episode of "First Down by CoachTools"! In this episode, Justin sits down with Jack Dustin, the Strength and Conditioning Coordinator at Endicott. Jack shares his inspiring journey, from being a student-athlete at Assumption College to his current role at Endicott, where he oversees the training of 830 student-athletes and serves as an adjunct lecturer for the exercise science program. Jack and Justin delve into: - Jack's diverse experiences working with athletes of all ages, from sixth graders to professional lacrosse players. - His time at Coastal Carolina, where he balanced a dual role in strength and conditioning and working with the football team. - The importance of understanding the physical expectations of players and tailoring training to meet individual needs. - The structure of Endicott's strength and conditioning program, which includes foundations, intermediate, and advanced groups focused on speed, strength, and explosive power. - The significance of being a well-rounded athlete and student, and the vital skill of learning how to learn. Jack also emphasizes continuous learning and pushing boundaries in the field of strength and conditioning. This episode is packed with insights and practical advice for coaches, athletes, and anyone interested in sports performance and development. Tune in to hear Jack's valuable experiences and tips for success in the world of strength and conditioning. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! Jack Dustin, M'23, a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) from the National Strength and Conditioning Association, is entering his fifth year as Endicott's head strength & conditioning coach in 2023-24. Previously, he served at NCAA Division II Assumption College and Coastal Carolina University. Jack holds a Bachelor's in Business Management from Assumption College, where he was a standout football player, earning multiple accolades and honor roll awards. #StrengthAndConditioning #CoachTools #Football #AthleteDevelopment #Podcast #Fitness #Endicott #Coaching #SportsPerformance

    18 Min.

Info

First Down by CoachTools is a resource for high school and college coaches to learn from experienced professionals about their careers and advice. First Down host, Justin Titchenell, interviews the top names in high school and college coaching.