Building Resilience and Culture: Insights from Vanden HS Girls Basketball Coaches
Wed Feb 04 2026
Join us in this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast as we sit down with Allison and Jake Johnson, head coaches of the Vanden High School Girls Basketball program. They share their journey from college basketball to coaching high school, discussing the challenges and successes they've encountered along the way. Dive into how they build a strong team culture, handle challenges, and balance the human aspect with discipline in sports. Discover practical tips on keeping players accountable, fostering competitiveness, and navigating the fine line between strictness and flexibility. Whether you're a coach, player, or sports enthusiast, this episode is a goldmine of wisdom on effective coaching and team management.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:49 Allison's Coaching Journey
02:04 Jake's Coaching Journey
03:16 Transitioning from JV to Varsity
04:54 Building a Winning Program
08:38 Balancing Toughness and Tact
14:39 Encouraging Competitiveness and Effort
27:37 Creating a Positive Team Culture
29:33 Holding Kids Accountable and Human Connection
30:33 Legacy and Accountability in Coaching
31:21 Alumni Pride and High School Memories
33:33 Learning from Other Sports and Coaches
38:42 Balancing Rules and Flexibility
50:41 Correctional Officer Insights in Coaching
55:12 Adapting Parenting and Coaching Styles
56:23 The Importance of Listening and Patience
58:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
More
Join us in this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast as we sit down with Allison and Jake Johnson, head coaches of the Vanden High School Girls Basketball program. They share their journey from college basketball to coaching high school, discussing the challenges and successes they've encountered along the way. Dive into how they build a strong team culture, handle challenges, and balance the human aspect with discipline in sports. Discover practical tips on keeping players accountable, fostering competitiveness, and navigating the fine line between strictness and flexibility. Whether you're a coach, player, or sports enthusiast, this episode is a goldmine of wisdom on effective coaching and team management. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:49 Allison's Coaching Journey 02:04 Jake's Coaching Journey 03:16 Transitioning from JV to Varsity 04:54 Building a Winning Program 08:38 Balancing Toughness and Tact 14:39 Encouraging Competitiveness and Effort 27:37 Creating a Positive Team Culture 29:33 Holding Kids Accountable and Human Connection 30:33 Legacy and Accountability in Coaching 31:21 Alumni Pride and High School Memories 33:33 Learning from Other Sports and Coaches 38:42 Balancing Rules and Flexibility 50:41 Correctional Officer Insights in Coaching 55:12 Adapting Parenting and Coaching Styles 56:23 The Importance of Listening and Patience 58:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts