For coaches that want to evolve and learn new tricks about coaching cross country, then HowExpert Guide to Cross Country Coaching is the course for you. The author Kyle Daubs is a young coach that started a cooperative, cross country program between two schools. In its four year existence, the boys and girls rose to the top of their conference standings.
The author not only brings five years of coaching cross country experience but also brings a youthful approach to the game. The author received his bachelor’s and master’s degree in special education. He has taught special education for the last four years. During this time, he started the cross country cooperative for Lowpoint-Washburn-Roanoke-Benson in 2016. During his time, he guided the girls cross country team to a conference championship in his second year of coaching and took the team to the IHSA Sectional meet.
He has also coached track since 2015. Since 2015, he has sent 22 athletes to state competition, including coaching three all-state relays and three all-state individuals.
As mentioned in the course, he claims that he does not know all methods to be successful, but has built a program that has sustained competitiveness among small schools. The author states that this course is great for first-time coaches, and even older coaches who want to learn a few new tricks.
The course is divided up into seven chapters. The chapter topics range from coaching philosophy, keys to motivation, planning, improving race performance, preparing, and reflection. The course also contains training plans that can range from beginning runners to the advanced.
The course also talks about how to handle the behind the scenes work. This includes working with parents, media, other coaches, and the administration. If there were a complete guide on how to coach a sport, this course is a must-read.
About the Expert:
Kyle Daubs is a 2011 graduate of Charleston High School and a 2015 graduate of Eastern Illinois University. He received his degree in special education. He has taught special education for the last four years. During this time, he started the cross country cooperative for Lowpoint-Washburn-Roanoke-Benson in 2016. During his time, he guided the girls cross country team to a conference championship in his second year of coaching and took the team to the IHSA Sectional meet. He has also coached track since 2015. Since 2015, he has sent 22 athletes to state competition, including coaching three all-state relays and three all-state individuals.
