Kinesiology guest speaker strength coach

Introduction to guest speaker who is part of the strength conditioning staff at LSU.
Mention of her unique background and the wisdom she has to share.
Importance of networking, self-conduct, and seizing opportunities, regardless of interest in strength conditioning.

The speaker's position at LSU: Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Olympic department, not involved with football.
Brief introductions of individuals present (cheerleaders, softball athletes, managers).

Simplified explanation of the role: "Pick it up, put it down."
Clarification that the job involves much more than just getting athletes stronger.
Emphasis on the multifaceted nature of the job beyond strength training.

Mention of past titles held: Associate Director of Athletic Performance, Assistant Coach for Athletic Performance.
Goal as a coach: to achieve high performance in athletes.
Discussion of strength as a limiter in overall performance.

Responsibilities include designing and implementing athletic training programs.
Importance of periodization in workout planning—not merely writing routines down.
Key aspects covered: Strength, stamina, speed, warm-ups, cool-downs, prehab, and rehab.
Critical management of athlete availability, as health is prioritized over performance.

Concept of "Health over Performance": If athletes are not healthy, they cannot perform.
Example of prioritizing athlete health when pushing weight limits.

Load management systems for assigned teams (indoor volleyball and women's tennis).
Use of an IMU unit called Kinexon for measurements related to volleyball performance, emphasizing jumps and time on feet.
Mention of different metrics used in baseball training and comparison to volleyball.

Essential collaboration with athletic medicine, nutrition, coaching staffs.
Importance of working together for a holistic training approach.
Travel to support teams as needed, with a focus on being physically present during treatments and workouts.

Bachelor's degree in Health and Exercise Sciences from the University of Oklahoma.
Master's degree in Kinesiology focused on adapted physical activity, working with disabled athletes.

CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) from NSCA is essential for the position.
- NSCA's importance in the field and overview of certification specifics.
RSCC (Registered Strength Coach) status indicates professional experience and longevity in the field.
SCCC (Strength and Conditioning Coach Certified) requires practical exams and significant internship hours.
Other relevant certifications (USAW for Olympic lifting) acknowledged but considered less impactful.
Importance of practical experience over certifications alone, emphasizing internships as critical for employment in this field.

Personal athletic career at the University of Oklahoma, specializing in javelin.
Development of weight room skills during collegiate career, inspired by foundational coaching.

Post-competitor phase involved pursuing a Master's while gaining relevant experience through internships.
Mention of internships at the NSCA and connections made at US Olympic Training Center.
Discussion of career shifts and experiences at the University of Michigan and University of Arizona, dealing with a variety of sports and athletes.

Day begins around 3:30 - 4:00 AM.
Arriving at the facility early to prepare for athlete workouts; invitations to engage with students present.
Balancing responsibilities between two teams, maintaining a flexible but structured approach to work.
Mention of administrative work, boundaries set for personal time, and communication with staff.

Long, unpredictable hours associated with the conditioning sport.
Need for balancing personal life with the demanding schedule of a strength coach.

Importance of being adaptable and capable of solving problems in a fast-paced environment.
Striving to be a solution-oriented employee rather than one that creates problems.

Highlighting the significance of relationships and networking in building a career and being successful.
Mentoring influences and the relationship with direct supervisors, colleagues, and athletes mentioned.

Passion for being a strength coach, emphasizing the role of personal fulfillment and satisfaction.
Differentiation between balance and integration of work and personal life.

Discussion about how success can be defined in various ways: financial achievements, personal relationships, or performance metrics.
Individuality of experiences and avoiding useless comparisons with peers.

Emphasis on the importance of relationships and human connections in the profession.
Importance of finding meaningful work and the impact individuals have on one another.
Acknowledgment of potential growth within the profession.