Added: Aug 16, 2023
In this podcast episode, Ed Mylett interviews Dan Hurley, the head basketball coach at the University of Connecticut, who recently led his team to win the national championship. Hurley discusses the unique qualities required to lead elite collegiate sports programs and shares insights into his coaching philosophy and approach.Hurley emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation and culture within the organization. He believes in giving people ample time to show their value and commitment before making any changes. He also highlights the significance of modeling the behavior and work ethic he expects from his players and staff. When it comes to delivering criticism, Hurley believes in being honest and tough when necessary, but also celebrating success. He acknowledges the importance of maintaining players' confidence and enhancing their performance on game nights. He separates coaching intensity from game night intensity, focusing on building up his players during games rather than berating them. Hurley attributes his success to his relentless pursuit of mastery in all aspects of coaching. He strives to be the best in terms of culture, recruiting, player development, tactical coaching, and marketing. He also credits his strong foundation in faith and his supportive family for helping him handle the pressures and challenges of his job. Hurley discusses the importance of morning routines and meditation in his life. He believes that starting the day with a structured routine and focusing on mental and physical well-being gives him an advantage over his competitors. He acknowledges that his high-energy coaching style can sometimes lead to emotional challenges, but his morning routine and meditation practice help him stay grounded. In terms of recruiting, Hurley believes in being transparent with potential players about the demands and expectations of the program. He wants them to understand the intensity and workload required to succeed at UConn. He also emphasizes the importance of faith and family in his recruiting process. Hurley concludes by expressing his love for the work and the chase of achieving success. He finds joy in the process of coaching and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of his players. He acknowledges that winning a national championship was an incredible experience, but he is already focused on the next mission and the next group of players. Overall, Hurley's coaching philosophy revolves around building a strong foundation, setting high standards, and constantly striving for excellence. He believes in the power of preparation, discipline, and personal growth to achieve success at the highest level.
