I had the honor seeing how and where Positive Coaching Alliance all started when I worked on the Stanford University campus when Jim Thompson launched this great organization in 1998. Over 20 years later, I am humbled to play a role in PCA as a member of the Board of Directors of the Positive Coaching Alliance’s Portland Chapter.

I applaud PCA for fine tuning, and adjusting, its workshop programming over the years. There are so many that bring value to administrators, coaches and athletes. The workshop that most speaks to me in the current world of sports at any level is ‘Positive Motivation: Getting the Best from Athletes’.

And that speaks directly to how we ‘Coach Coaches’ here at the University of Portland:

• Culture wins games. It wins championships. But as importantly it builds character and life lessons for our athletes that last a lifetime.
• When applicable, recruit to your culture. Recruit based on both talent and program fit. Not just talent. Look for superstars on the field and in the locker room.
• Work with coaches to value every member of your roster equally- show them how they fit and embody that culture. That means clearly and concisely defining, and communicating, roles for every member of the team.
• Work with coaches to ensure accountability as it relates to living and following those cultural values. The cultural pillars apply to coaches and staff every bit as much as they apply to the athletes.
• An administrator is part of that culture. An administrator wears many hats with a coach: Cheerleader. Confidant. Support system. But the most important role is being a consistent presence – during the season and in the off-season. After wins and losses. As much as you expect your coaches to be there for your players, hold yourself to the same standard and be present for your coaches through good times and bad.

Good luck with your seasons this fall!

Scott Leykam

Vice President for Athletics

University of Portland