I have learned many valuable lessons in my life through teaching, coaching and mentorship.  These came primarily from my upbringing and from my experience as an assistant men’s lacrosse coach at Division III lacrosse program in Lexington, Kentucky.

As I have reflected on my life and how my life has lead me to this point I feel extremely blessed for the mentor-ship I have received from so many in addition to the guidance of parents in my development.  One of the first great moments of advice came from my parents.  It has always been pressed upon the my siblings and me to push yourself, which meant goal setting and furthering yourself educationally.  This did not mean I simply had to continue going into one form of higher education.  It means simply, READ!  Always read, always learn, always ask questions.  No individual is bigger than asking questions that could help guide them in their future.  I can confidently tell you that my father has always given me a book for my birthday and Christmas of every year of my life.  The subjects vary from Leadership, Coaching, Inspirational stories, fitness, and mental health.  It does not stop with non fiction.  I am a former high school literature teacher and I often read fiction to keep my mind active.  I try to read at least a chapter from one of the books I am working to finish each day. I think it is crucial for my mental health, it is personal time of reflection for me in addition to being a great tool for me to grow as a person and coach.  I cannot thank my mother and father enough for pushing me to read, to ask questions and pursue my goals.  This has led me to always invest in my future whether that is a book, podcast or convention to help me blossom in the fields I pursue.

One of the most crucial elements of my individual growth has come from one of my greatest mentors, a former high school coach and someone I continue working with today.  He has been a great teacher to me in my development as a coach, mentor and friend.  One of the most valuable lessons he has taught me has been the value of listening.  Many can speak and speak quickly.  It is to speak without thinking.  Coach has influenced me with regard to the value of words.  What you say is important as a teacher and mentor to young people.  The value of listening is equally important.  Answers are not always found quickly but instead through thought and investigation of any subjects.  Every answer from Coach comes with great thought, whether that is discipline, the change of an offense or defense, or simply listening to a young man talk in his office about the daily life of a student-athlete.  It is easy to speak fast, type quickly and hit send without thinking.  I am always working to be better and improve upon this skill.  It is surely not a finished skill but always a work in progress.
Name: Logan

Title: Assistant Coach

Industry: College Athletics & Education

 

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