In September 2024, e.t.c proudly launched the inaugural ASPIRE Program in partnership with the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA). This innovative initiative underscores the IWLCA’s commitment to fostering professional growth and the development of expertise among women’s lacrosse coaches.
Empowering Assistant Coaches
ASPIRE is designed specifically for assistant coaches in women’s lacrosse, equipping them with the tools, insights, and networks needed to lead the future of the sport. Unlike traditional coaching programs that focus primarily on technical expertise, ASPIRE emphasizes the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills that enable coaches to be effective leaders—on and off the field.
The Power of In-Person Connection
This week, the IWLCA Convention in St. Petersburg, FL, provided a pivotal moment for the ASPIRE participants: their first opportunity to connect in person. The three-hour workshop was a centerpiece of the Convention, offering coaches a chance to deepen their engagement with the program, strengthen their professional networks, and advance their coaching practice.
Workshop Highlights
The in-person workshop was a dynamic and thought-provoking experience, designed to:
Reconnect ASPIRE colleagues, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Encourage reflection on their coaching philosophies to ensure they remain fit for purpose.
Analyze concepts of learning and assess how effectively they support athlete development.
Explore essential communication skills to “coach the whole athlete.”
Identify actionable steps for personal and professional growth.
The energy and interaction in the room were palpable. Coaches shared experiences, challenged their assumptions, and collaboratively explored what it means to grow—not only as coaches in their sport but also as individuals committed to lifelong learning. This gathering wasn’t just a workshop; it was an opportunity to reinforce connections and build a stronger network of women’s lacrosse coaches who will support each other as they navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The Impact of the ASPIRE Program
The ASPIRE Program has already demonstrated its ability to transform the way assistant coaches approach their roles, both professionally and personally. Reflecting on the experience, one participant shared:
"The ASPIRE program has been an incredibly useful tool in helping to open the minds of veteran assistant coaches and shaping the minds of newer assistants. The questions and topics were thought-provoking, and Sarah and Julie pushed us to dive deep into the ‘why’ behind what we do. All to help us develop and grow in order to better serve our head coaches and, more importantly, the student-athletes."
Continuing the Journey
Julie Muller and I have been honored to guide this inaugural cohort of 18 assistant coaches throughout the 2024–2025 academic year. Witnessing the relationships formed and the progress made during this workshop underscored the value of bringing people together face-to-face—a reminder of the power of human connection in professional development.
As the program continues into the spring season, participants will transition back to virtual learning, supported by webinars functioning as action learning sets and ongoing mentoring. These elements will ensure that the insights and skills cultivated through ASPIRE continue to flourish, helping these coaches coach with confidence and purpose.
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