PREPNET / SPEAK OUT

How does high school go about building a successful athletic program?

CEDRIC BOZEMAN

Mater Dei, Basketball

It takes coaching and listening. The kids have to show interest in what the coaches are doing and realize that their philosophy is correct. If the kids buy into it, you’re going to have success no matter what. The coaches have been around a lot longer, they have the information, and you have to follow them. They’re the leaders and you’re the follower.

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KYLE KELLY

Dana Hills, Football

It takes dedication from everyone in the school. That includes players, students, faculty and parents. It also takes good leadership and a good coaching staff. The coaching staff should build team unity and it is the athletic director’s job to get the school and the faculty involved in each program.

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DANA KENNEY

Rosary, Softball/Basketball

The administration must support and encourage a competitive program, while also stressing academics as a priority. The athletic program must be headed by a motivated and loyal athletic director with good communication skills. The coaches must be qualified, dedicated, and push the athletes to reach their full potential in a positive manner. This combination will attract the better student-athletes who, upon leaving the program, will be better prepared to succeed in college, as well as life.

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JON GREEN

Newport Harbor, Assistant Baseball Coach

A successful high school sports program requires three main ingredients: support, coaching and luck. In support I refer to two main bodies of people: the administration and parents. The coaching staff must be qualified and stable. Finally, it really has to do with the luck of the draw; if a kid’s parents decide to reside in your boundaries. If you lack the horses, you’re not going to win the race.

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TONY LIGHTFOOT

Valencia, Aquatics Booster

It begins with a school administration that wants the sports in their school to be as successful as the academics. You then add in a dedicated and knowledgeable coach with the ability to teach, lead and inspire. Add in dedicated athletes willing to listen, learn and put out 110%. The last ingredient is the parents. They need to support the coaches and kids but not try to be coaches themselves. If your school is lucky enough to have this combination, it will have successful sports programs.

NEXT QUESTION

What is the best way to deal with a coach who becomes physical or abusive in performing his or her duties?