Mastering the Balance: Justin Bates on Coaching Golf at Stevenson School

Welcome back to the Contacts Coaching Podcast! In this insightful episode, we are joined by Justin Bates, golf coach at Stevenson School. Coach Bates shares his journey from being a novice coach to leading a championship-winning golf team. He discusses the transition from coaching soccer to golf, the challenges of maintaining a high-performing program, and the nuances of youth athletic development. Gain valuable insights into team management, the importance of multi-sport participation, and the significance of maintaining an even-keeled mindset in competitive sports. Whether you're an aspiring coach or a seasoned veteran, Justin's experiences and strategies will provide you with practical wisdom and inspiration.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:08 Coach Bates' Journey into Coaching

02:59 Transition from Soccer to Golf

07:59 Challenges and Realizations in Coaching

12:36 Managing a Competitive Golf Program

20:49 Balancing Team and Individual Development

23:42 Tough Decisions in Coaching

25:57 The Value of Multi-Sport Athletes

28:29 The Grind of Golf and Taking Breaks

31:40 Learning from Other Sports

35:43 Empathy and Growth as a Coach

38:39 Maintaining Consistency in Competition

42:18 Concluding Thoughts and Appreciation