In this engaging episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo sits down with Justin Rey, a distinguished strength coach at LaSalle University. The conversation delves into Justin’s professional journey, beginning with his foundational experiences at St. Joe’s University, where he was mentored by influential figures like Brian Bingaman and Ben Steenrod. Justin reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including his time with the University of Miami and the Philadelphia 76ers, emphasizing the critical role of networking and relationship-building in advancing within the sports industry.

Justin shares his philosophy on time management and discipline, underscoring their importance in achieving success as a coach. He discusses the necessity of being adaptable in the ever-evolving landscape of sports coaching, where continuous learning and embracing new methodologies are vital. The episode also explores the challenges of athlete retention in today’s dynamic sports environment, highlighting the impact of external factors such as the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals.

Throughout the discussion, Justin emphasizes the value of maintaining strong connections with athletes and fellow coaches, advocating for open communication and trust as foundational elements of effective coaching. He shares personal anecdotes and lessons learned from his interactions with various head coaches, illustrating how these experiences have informed his approach to leadership and mentorship.

The episode concludes with insights into the future of sports coaching, as Justin and Jay discuss the importance of being a consistent and reliable presence for athletes, while also navigating the complexities of modern sports dynamics. As Jay aptly puts it, “that’s all you need to know about our vocation,” encapsulating the core principles and values that define the coaching profession. This conversation offers valuable takeaways for aspiring coaches and sports professionals, providing a comprehensive look at the skills and mindset required to thrive in the competitive world of sports coaching. Make sure you tap in to Reps and Real Talk on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2UYOzI2…

Takeaways
Networking is crucial for career advancement in sports.
Time management and discipline are key for success.
Adaptability is essential in the evolving sports industry.
Building strong relationships with athletes and coaches is vital.
Continuous learning and education are important for coaches.
Retaining athletes is a challenge in today’s sports landscape.
Understanding different sports cultures can enhance coaching.
Effective communication builds trust with athletes.
Coaches should be consistent and reliable for their teams.
The sports industry requires wearing many hats and multitasking.
Sound bites

Chapters
00:16 Introduction to Justin Rey
01:50 Justin’s Journey in Coaching
05:32 The Importance of Networking and Relationships
08:14 Time Management and Discipline in Coaching
11:26 Evolving as a Coach Through Different Leadership
16:43 Adapting to Change in Coaching Environments
23:08 Navigating Player Retention and Team Dynamics
29:30 Advice for Young Coaches
30:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Guests

Keywords

Justin Rey, LaSalle University, strength coach, networking, time management, sports industry, adaptability, athlete retention, coaching evolution, relationship building