Most organizations, and especially coaches and sports leaders, fail to recognize the devastating impact toxic leadership can have on athletes and teams. Dr. Jeremy Piasecki, founder of Culture and Sports, reveals how self-awareness, empathy, and strategic reflection can transform crises into opportunities for growth and resilience. This episode uncovers powerful […]
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Sports are often framed as the ultimate meritocracy. But long before the games begin, some athletes inherit opportunity while others are simply trying to survive long enough to dream.
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The 30th season of the WNBA tips off next Friday, May 8th and a record 216 games will be nationally televised. This increase in visibility isn’t just a win for the league or its fans. It is a win for women as a whole. This is the first season under […]
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The NBA Playoffs transform basketball into a high-stakes battle, showcasing drama and teamwork. With sixteen teams competing, the playoffs unfold like a gripping narrative, revealing each team’s true identity through seven pivotal games. Each game serves a distinct purpose: from establishing identity in Game 1 to the pressure cooker of Game 7, where reputations are forged. Ultimately, the playoffs not only crown a champion but also expose the essence of each team’s character and resilience.
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Just hours into the first day of free agency, it was announced that Angel Reese was traded from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for the Dream’s 2027 and 2028 first-round picks (WNBA, 2026). Reese had expressed frustrations with the Sky franchise in an interview with the […]
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Across every level of sport, from recreational sports to professional organizations, leadership and organizational culture dictate how teams operate, athletes are treated and perform, and how organizations respond to success, pressure, and adversity. For decades, many organizations, leaders, coaches, support staff, athletes, and fans have celebrated performance while overlooking the […]
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Crowds. Tailgates. Never-ending amounts of people waiting behind stadium doors. Ready for a day of chants, screams, scoffs, grunts, and tears (sadness or joy). College sports contain everlasting emotions, generational pride, a drive to win, and a hunger not to lose. These sports never fail to unleash the competitive spirit […]
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While new scandals coming to light weekly, the growth of online sports betting hasn’t slowed. There are still new markets and opportunities to explore, including women’s and youth sports. In fact, it is difficult to imagine who could ever disrupt this wildly successful industry – except, of course, an industry […]
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It’s no secret that youth are specializing in sports at younger and younger ages. Parents have a dream —a defined future, if you will —that has their son or daughter playing collegiate or professional sports. Although there is nothing inherently wrong with dreams, there is something amiss with ignoring the […]
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Where there is gambling, there are addicted gamblers. Gambling addiction is more than just an economic problem – it can have a profoundly serious impact on the lives of individuals who are affected – but the research on, and funding for treatment of, compulsive gambling is only a fraction of […]
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Co-hosts Dr. Jeremy Piasecki and Sydney Moore discuss about the new challenges athletes must face on the Culture in Sports Podcast.
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With all the negative coverage of sports betting – concerns about gambling harms, cheating scandals, bad behavior directed towards athletes – the casual observer to wonder why we ever wanted it in the first place or why state legislators continue to push sports betting forward. The reality is that the sports […]
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In the present, it’s largely accepted that sports serve the masses for entertainment purposes, whether it be going to a game or watching it with friends and family on the television. However, there is one thing in common, that is it always seems to attract groups of people who share […]
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When we see a successful team, we recognize the players for their extraordinary talent and capabilities. However, the reason they get there is incredible coaching. A study by The Harris Public Policy believes that the coaches are responsible for 20-30% of the team’s outcome. This proves how coaches are a […]
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The Culture in Sports Podcast continues with season 5: The Future of College Athletics. Robert Boland and Dr. Jeremy Piasecki have an incredible discussion about the uncertain future of college sports.
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Participation in any form of exercise comes with a risk of injury. Factors that contribute to the risk of injury include what type of exercise one might participate in. Examples include, playing sports, going to the gym, and excessive running without proper recovery. Injuries are something that athletes never wish […]
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This is the second of two special episodes about CrossFit’s cultural and organizational issues brought to light by the death of elite athlete Lazar Ðukic at the 2024 CrossFit Games.
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On August 8, 2024, Lazar Ðukic lost his life in a Texas lake during the first event of the 2024 CrossFit Games. His death has rocked the competitive CrossFit community to its core. Although competition resumed, it wasn’t the same. Many top athletes were missing from the floor and those who […]
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Coaches and athletes often interchange the words concentration and attention and the often-heard term fouls. To most effectively utilize these tools, it may be helpful to define each term; Vernacchia (2003) defined concentration simply as “the ability to perform with a clear and present focus” (p.144). What, then, is focus? […]
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Sports is a creative activity where individuals work together towards certain objectives. On one hand, the goal of sports is to improve the health of people and the formation of individuals’ personalities. On the other hand, sports can be appreciated as a form of entertainment. Viewing sports events is appreciating […]
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As a current (time of writing this article) high school athlete, the high school sports experiences is has lots to offer to any athlete. Teens at the end of their 4 years will take away with them invaluable life lessons, lifelong friendships, and the will to compete. It holds a […]
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Sports is widely agreed upon as being an essential component of a student’s exercise program. However, many students display fear and avoid any physical activity in particular sports. From this point, coaches may draw upon positive psychology to indicate positive principles and instructions, helping players understand what is good and […]
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Have you coached a high school sports program for many years? Have you volunteered to coach a youth sports team in a recreational league? Either way, team cohesion dramatically impacts the success of your program and you as a coach. What is team Cohesion? Imagine a sports team as a […]
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Many athletes have experienced what it’s like to leave the court or field and prepare themselves mentally only to have coaches criticize them for a subpar performance. Players just need some time to think things through since they’ve heard enough. On the flip side, coaches feel compelled to speak frankly […]
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Season 4 of the Culture in Sports Podcast continues with Lori Okimura (World ParaVolley) and Dr. Jeremy Piasecki having a discussion with investigative reporter Scott Reid, from the Orange County Register. Scott broke the story about the current toxic and abusive culture on a collegiate sports team: Idaho Volleyball. Learn […]
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Season 4 of the Culture in Sports Podcast is here! In this episode, Lori Okimura (World ParaVolley) and Dr. Jeremy Piasecki take a deep dive into a current #toxic and #abusive #culture on a collegiate #sports team.
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This final episode of our first season closes with some final thoughts from most of this season’s guests where transgender youth in K-12 sports currently stands, where it could be headed, and what we should be doing with our concerns in the meantime.
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In this episode, I explore the various factions who, despite their different general ideologies, have united in advocating for the exclusion of trans kids from sports. We discuss why this presents such a challenge when working to educate and advocate around this issue. I also provide some additional details on […]
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When I started thinking about how to address the issue of trans exclusion from youth sports, I knew I needed to include the culture/industry of youth sports as part of the discussion. The pressure to compete and perform at a high level in athletics is reaching kids earlier than ever […]
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One of the most commonly expressed objections to the inclusion of trans athletes is that it is fundamentally unfair, particularly to cis women and girls, to compete against trans women and girls. While this cultural belief may be ubiquitous, the science behind it is far from black and white. Without […]
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This episode picks up where the last left off – about 50 years ago – when Title IX’s enactment changed education and athletics for women and girls in some big ways. But this 50 year old statute and implementing regulations were not created with trans and non-binary students in mind. […]
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To better understand how and why sports are a part of education, this episode goes back to where they started. Although the culture of youth sports has certainly evolved, the purpose of interscholastic athletics really has not. Today, just like 100 years ago, educators value the role of sport in […]
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Listen to Dr. Jeremy Piasecki and Ben Gucciardi, of Soccer Without Borders, speak about culture, relationships, trust, feeling valued, connection, mental health, intention, social isolation, and developing people.
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Episode 2 looks at the recent legislative push to ban transgender kids from scholastic sports across the country in the context of the anti-trans bathroom bans that preceded it. I also dive into the Soule v. Connecticut case that is so frequently referenced as an example of trans athlete exceptionalism despite the […]
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Watch Dr. Jeremy Piasecki and Asante Sefa-Boakye, of Black Star Polo speak about dreams, confidence, positivity, overcoming adversity, resilience, and developing athletes.
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Listen to Dr. Jeremy Piasecki and Asante Sefa-Boakye, of Black Star Polo speak about dreams, confidence, positivity, overcoming adversity, resilience, and developing athletes.
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In Episode 1, I start to introduce you to some of the legal scholars and advocates I interviewed in my research. Their remarks all come from recorded interviews that are available in full via provided links. I excerpted these specific portions to frame my approach to discussing the significance of […]
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Listen to our new show: “Hearsay From the Sidelines”, a place where law, sports and culture intersect and is brought to you by Culture in Sports and Seton Hall Law School’s Gaming, Hospitality, Entertainment and Sports Law program.”
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Watch Dr. Jeremy Piasecki and Chase Griffin, Quarterback for UCLA Football discuss trust, opportunities, positive leadership, accountability, respect, struggle, food insecurity, self-care, wellness, burnout, perfection, 365 days of winning, role models, and impacting the world, and learn about his journey through sports and the importance of leadership and organizational culture […]
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Listen to Dr. Jeremy Piasecki speak with Chase Griffin, Quarterback for UCLA Football about trust, opportunities, positive leadership, accountability, respect, struggle, food insecurity, self-care, wellness, burnout, perfection, 365 days of winning, role models, and impacting the world, and learn about his journey through sports and the importance of leadership and […]
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Watch Dr. Jeremy Piasecki speak with Richard McInnes, the former CEO of Water Polo Australia, and now the Executive General Manager in Sport and Community Capability for the Australian Sports Commission, about his journey through sports and the importance of leadership and organizational culture in sports.
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Dr. Jeremy Piasecki speaks with Richard McInnes, the former CEO of Water Polo Australia, and now the Executive General Manager in Sport and Community Capability for the Australian Sports Commission, about his journey through sports and the importance of leadership and organizational culture in sports.
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In the realm of sports coaching, this insight from da Vinci always holds true: “All our knowledge has its origins in our perceptions”. Our perceptions and biases, often operating subconsciously, can significantly positively or negatively impact our coaching practices and decisions. Understanding Perceptions and Biases Perceptions refer to the way […]
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“Coaching is unlocking a person’s potential to maximize their growth,” said legendary business coach, Sir John Whitmore. This sentiment rings true across all coaching domains, including sports. The passion for coaching sports goes beyond winning games; it is about nurturing talent, fostering personal growth, and inspiring others to achieve their […]
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Coaches do make mistakes. Are these “mistakes” intentional or actual mistakes that a human being can make? Are coaches and other sports leaders willing to self reflect, identify toxic and abusive behavior, and take corrective action? Or will they double down on their behavior at the expense of others? We, […]
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In the final episode of season one the hosts breakdown common misconceptions when it comes to what a Sport Psychologist produces and experiences.
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This week’s episode breaks down the different scenarios and dynamics involved with relationships in sport. How can we get to know each other as people, deeper than just a coach player model.
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In this weeks episode the team breaks down the different facets of identity and how it relates to sports performance. Determining what kind of parts of identity allow us to get through challenges.
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In todays episode Bryce and Manisha break down the dynamics of goal setting. Reflect and re-evaluate, its ok that your goals can change. Develop a roadmap to combat challenges to your goals.
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In todays sport mental performance conversation, hosts Bryce and Manisha discuss routines, how each sport requires a different focus, and focus control.
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Breaking down the importance of creating resiliency as an individual athlete, which can lead to mental toughness as a team culture.
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Using mental reps to get positive outcomes for yourself, through being able to use your imagination. What’s the difference between day dreaming and being able to see positive benefits from imaginations?
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Manisha and Bryce discuss the importance of mental performance and motivation for athletes, teams, coaches, organizations, culture, and leadership.
Read More Manisha and Bryce discuss the importance of mental performance and motivation for athletes, teams, coaches, organizations, culture, and leadership.
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Manisha and Bryce discuss the importance of mental performance for athletes, teams, coaches, organizations, culture, and leadership.
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Manisha and Bryce discuss the importance of mental performance for athletes, teams, coaches, organizations, culture, and leadership.
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When I say the word ‘Leader’, we all probably think of someone different. Some of us may see a former coach, a player on our team, or someone entirely unrelated to sports. Leaders are everywhere, in every field, but sports is where my mind goes to first when thinking of […]
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The owner of the Phoenix Mercury and Phoenix Suns was suspended and fined by the NBA. For 17 years, the toxic culture prevailed. All personnel in both organizations were impacted by Robert Sarver’s toxic leadership and culture for 17 years. Sarver was suspended for one year and fined $10 million. […]
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Yesterday, Bryce Strecker wrote about “The ability to focus can become your secret weapon“. It was an extremely informative article that dove deep into understanding focus and assisting athletes to better focus. If you have not read Bryce’s article yet, you must take a few minutes to not only read […]
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I’ll be the first person to admit that I struggle to focus pretty often. I have a real ‘wanderer’ of a mind and that can make things difficult for me. Whether it’s trying to get myself to sit down and finish writing this article or getting myself to actually pay […]
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Confidence… It’s something we hear about all the time both inside and outside competitive sports. It’s such a subjective topic that means something different to every person who talks about it, so I want to take a deeper dive into Confidence because it plays such a huge role in an […]
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Yesterday, Bryce Strecker wrote that “Team Culture Should Be Founded on Motivation”. It was an extremely informative article the dove deep into how a team’s culture is influenced or led by motivation. Many thought leaders discuss different ways to lead or influence culture within an organization, and I have heard […]
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The power and evolution of social media continues to grow and have an impact on not just football but all sports especially in the last decade. With social media now becoming such a necessity to people of all ages and how popular it has become majority of people use some […]
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Readers, Justin “Jolly” Rogers is a remarkable athlete and person who recently broke the Pennsylvania State Meet AAA record with a vault of 17 feet 3 inches … utterly remarkable. Not only is he talented, but Jolly embodies what it means to respect not only a sport, but also his […]
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It would be foolish for any high level athlete to think that their team is not a business. In terms of the NBA, teams are money making machines, and owners won’t stop for anything if they see a chance to increase their revenue. Every team is a business, we know […]
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This episode provides a glimpse into the world of soccer with Samantha Johnson. She discusses how she sought mentorship at different points in her life. We’ll also hear how important team bonding is and so much more.
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This episode provides a glimpse into the world of soccer with Samantha Johnson. She discusses how she sought mentorship at different points in her life. We’ll also hear how important team bonding is, and so much more.
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In this episode with Jacoby and Jaylen Jackson we get to listen to experiences with having a parent heavily involved in your sport. Jay speaks on having his dad on and off the court practicing, and learning the fundamentals of leadership.
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In this episode with jacoby and jaylen jackson we get to listen to experiences with having a parent heavily involved in your sport. Jay speaks on having his dad on and off the court practicing, and learning the fundamentals of leadership.
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On this episode we discuss with Lori Okimura how important the behind the scenes support is for all athletes. From the Olympics volunteering, to breaking down the importance of behind the scenes and what that entails, and helping athletes understand the transition into the workforce.
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The English Premier League is arguably the bets football league in the world and the pinnacle league for players not just in England but players from all over the world. The reputation this league has continued to have has been revolutionary and has changed the way a lot of clubs […]
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Kyle Thomas is the guest of the part two episode of the Culture in Sports podcast on mentorship. Champion Illinois footballer, Thomas is a great advocate for the benefits of mentorship for the young athlete, not just in sports but also for life. He champions having the mindfulness and awareness […]
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This is a two part episode, this second part with Kyle Thomas, discussing the importance of mentors throughout his sports career. The values and standards they taught him are helping him become the best version of himself for his career.
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https://youtube.com/shorts/WBcOSSxXJMI Today’s short video has Rio Murray telling you about what Lewis Hamilton is doing off the race track to help with adversity and diversity that he and many other athletes suffer regularly. Link to the full article is here: https://cultureinsports.com/lewis-hamilton-much-more-than-your-normal-athlete/
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This is a two part episode, this second part with Kyle Thomas, discussing the importance of mentors throughout his sports career. The values and standards they taught him are helping him become the best version of himself for his career.
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This is a two part episode, this first part with Saber Youman, discussing how leadership and mentorship in sports can play a role in your life and career. The values, discipline and guidance can help mold you in to the type of leader you want to be in your everyday […]
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This is a two part episode, this first part with Saber Youman, discussing how leadership and mentorship in sports can play a role in your life and career. The values, discipline and guidance can help mold you into the type of leader you want to be in your everyday life.
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Michael Jordan has always been remembered as a tremendous talented basketball player and athlete and his legacy is something that’s managed to carry on and continue even after he retired. The Brooklyn born athlete managed to win six championships and was the Finals MVP 6 times. He played for the […]
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Amateur sports organizations everywhere are making headlines for the wrong reasons. Whether it is human rights abuses casting a shadow over the Winter Olympics, less than desired performances in a long-delayed Summer Olympics, or calls for resignation by the athletes, sports organizations are under fire. Amateur sports are facing unprecedented […]
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Too often have we seen (and not seen) how player-coach dynamics fall through, inevitably causing mental or physical suffering to one or both parties. The end result is seen time and time again. Players are on the receiving end of the stick, and coaches usually just continue doing their thing. […]
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In this golden age of plenty, we are surprisingly lacking the essentials more profoundly that ever before. I read an article which bemoans the increasing lack of sporting facilities in modern urban Australian cities. Obviously covid put paid to many sporting plans, venues and pools were closed, new construction not […]
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Football in these two countries has always been very different. In the UK, football is the most popular sport by a long way in comparison to any other whereas in the US where it is considered as soccer, it is only the fifth most popular sport in the country. This […]
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Athletic success – what does that mean to you? The truth is that it likely means many different things to many different people. Think about it … if you were an athlete (or still are) you understand that Athletic Success goes way beyond solely Athletic Performance. We at Culture in […]
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Be something you’re not … so easy, right? (Hopefully obvious sarcasm) Any serious athlete has experienced this; you step up to a challenge, evolve as a competitor, overcome a personal barrier, or just (let’s be frank) kick your opponent’s butt. (I wanted to use a different word for “butt”) Athletes […]
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A true Coach is not really in it for themselves, he/she is in it for the athlete and the people they care about. They’re creating a future for the family they’ve chosen, i.e, a happy life for them. (Just imagine sitting on a beach at sunset with your feet in […]
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Greatness, no matter how long, sticks with a man. (Yes, I used the Gene Hackman reference from The Replacements again) But what is seldom thought about is, “What about greatness at an athlete’s early age?” I believe these situations have more potential to crush an athlete than potential to help […]
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Toughness and camaraderie in Sport Team Culture comes down to whether one is either “The Leader,” “The Soldier,” or “The Supporter.” Everyone plays a role. Leaders, soldiers, and supporters – they all create “The Team.” No-one can truly thrive without the other executing their job. These roles stem from the […]
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When I was in the 5th grade at Hatfield Elementary School (Uniontown, PA) I met a lifelong brother and the truest of friends, Joseph Spinuzza. The first thing we did was have a rubber-band gun fight (We were 11 years old) … the second thing that we did as friends […]
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“Greatness, no matter how brief, stays with a man.” (A quote from the great actor Gene Hackman at the end of the superb Sport drama The Replacements, yeah I am indeed “fanboying” that performance) But what is greatness? Is it a Division-1 athlete who excels and wins a National title? […]
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In Australia on Boxing Day, there are two main sporting events that stir the nation’s interest, these are the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, and the Boxing Day Cricket Test. My English friends like to give me a hard time over the cricket, and there is a long-standing friendly rivalry […]
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I recently wrote an article about When Coaches Are Unwilling to Adapt or Change. In that article I discussed that “Coaching strategies that may have worked at one level may not work at another” and used the recent example of Urban Meyer and the Jacksonville Jaguars. Since then, much has […]
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I read Greg Steiner’s December 6th contribution to Culture in Sports “Locked Out”, expecting to be critical of it. Instead, I loved it and it very accurately reflects how fans feel about the zero-sum game of collective bargaining and the bargaining process. Why would I be critical of an earnest […]
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