By: Rainer Martens & Robin S. Vealey

Originally Published in: Successful Coaching

Provided by: Human Kinetics

Let's face it, everyone would prefer fewer meetings, but they are necessary at times, and you need to be thoughtful about making them efficient and effective. Let's first identify what we don't want to happen in a meeting:

The meeting occurs just because it was scheduled. The leader (you in this case) or the loudest, most extroverted, most senior people do all the talking. It starts late, and goes long. Groupthink occurs, where people don't feel free or safe to disagree or share alternative ideas. The conversation goes off-topic, and people are inattentive and on their phones. No tangible outcomes or action plans are identified. Thus, another meeting is scheduled.

Okay... let's rewind and identify some ways to run a more effective meeting:

1. Determine whether you really need a meeting. Don't just meet because it's been scheduled at the same time each week. Also, don't meet if the only purpose is to share information. You can do that via email.
2. Provide an agenda before the meeting. That allows attendees to prepare for the meeting. It provides structure, and it avoids surprises. Describe what you'll be doing in actionable, results-oriented terms.
3. Start and end on time. This sets the tone for your commitment to time management. It also demonstrates to your colleagues that you respect their time.
4. Request focus and engagement. If someone is necessarily busy on their phone or laptop, suggest they go somewhere else to multitask, and they can read about the meeting results later (Goff-Dupont, 2021).
5. Invite divergent thinking. Attendees need to know it's safe to voice opinions, even if they're not adopted. Explicitly explain this. Ask questions like, "Is there another way we should think about this?" or "Can you talk more about that?" And when you ask questions, such as "What are your thoughts?" be comfortable with even 60 seconds of silence as people consider ideas, collect their thoughts, and are ready to explain them.
6. Slow things down and proactively remind attendees of process when conflict erupts. Interrupt chaotic conflict by gaining attention (you may need to raise your voice) but then slowing your pace of speech (Grenny, 2017). You can say something like, "Hey folks, let me take a moment to point out what I'm noticing here. We've talked about this for about 15 minutes, but it seems we're upset about the problem as opposed to brainstorming possible solutions. I understand, but do you feel we can now move forward to talking about ways we can respond to this problem? Does that make sense, and will that work for us?"
7. Create visuals to capture ideas. Always have a whiteboard handy to jot down key points or illustrate connections and ideas. Have a separate whiteboard to the side of the room that becomes the "parking lot." When people start off-topic, but feel their comments are important and should be discussed, write these topics on the "parking lot" board. This calms down the person who wanted to be heard and keeps the meeting on task with the main topic at hand. These issues or topics can be included in a future meeting (if you need it!).
8. Always end with concrete, shareable results and action steps that will happen next. These are the validating outcomes of everyone's participation, be definitive and positive in saying what's next.
9. Adjourn the meeting with a sincere smile, upbeat attitude, and thank people for contributing their valuable time and energy. And mean it!

Don't forget that managing relationships also involves your skills in coordinating meetings between different groups of people. Show your colleagues that you value their time and thoughts by directing meetings that are truly needed and result in useful outcomes.

Watch the full ABCA Q&A session with Jon Gordon free here.

1. Opponent’s structure and personnel (Identity)
2. Our team’s structure and personnel (Identity)
3. Opponent’s curveballs
4. Opponent’s pressures
5. Create/Eliminate menu

By: David T. Morris

Author of: Student Athletes: Control Your Own Destiny

NIL is an exciting opportunity for both college and high school athletes, but before you dive into name, image, and likeness deals as a high school student, there are some important things to keep in mind. It's a good idea to start preparing early and understand how NIL could impact your path to college.

1. State NIL rules: Each state has its own NIL regulations, so what's allowed in one state may not be the same in another.
2. High school NIL rules: Though the NCAA permits high school student-athletes to monetize their NIL, check with your high school or sports association's rules to avoid violations.
3. Colleges and conference-specific NIL rules: In college, you'll also need to be aware of what your college or conference allows for NIL, not just the state law.
4. Know your risks: Engaging in NIL activities without considering the rules set by your state or high school sports association could jeopardize your eligibility to play college sports.
5. Prioritize school and sports: Keep up with your grades and improve your skills for college-level competition—this boosts both your college prospects and future NIL opportunities.
6. Seek guidance: Ask current college student-athletes for advice on name, image and likeness. They can connect you with NIL professionals and help you make smart choices! You can also explore the option of consulting with financial management experts, listening to industry-leading podcasts and attending NIL workshops.
7. Build your online presence: Even if you don't plan to engage in NIL deals in high school, begin building your online presence on social media. Sharing your journey and interests can help college coaches know you better for recruiting and set the stage for future NIL opportunities.
8. Stay informed: NIL rules and regulations are constantly changing as states, schools, and conferences assess their impact on athletes. Staying up-to-date on these developments and trends will help you make informed decisions during your high school and college journey.

To understand your NIL rights, regularly check the following sources:

• College/Universities and Conferences you are interested in
• https://www.ncsasports.org/name-image-likeness

Watch as Iowa Hawkeyes Assistant Coach Seth Wallace discusses the things that make a difference for a defense. Some include your beliefs and values, scheme consistency, blocks drill, tackling circuit, and more. He outlines defensive training principles, including fundamentals and player ownership, while contrasting analytics with player instincts for improved performance.

 
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