#26 - Kristen Kelsay on Becoming the NEW Head Volleyball Coach of Michigan State

Dan welcomes Kristen Kelsay, the new head volleyball coach at Michigan State, to discuss her journey from player to coach. Kristen shares her experiences in the recruiting process, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges she faced along the way. She touches on the significance of effective communication and conflict resolution in coaching, as well as the impact of strong female role models in her life. The discussion highlights Kristen's coaching philosophy and her commitment to creating a culture of care and concern within her program. Kristen Kelsay and Dan then discuss the nuances of coaching, focusing on the importance of empathy, the balance between transformational and transactional leadership, and the emotional challenges faced by coaches. They explore the significance of time in athlete development, the need for a personal coaching philosophy, and the complexities of building relationships with athletes. Additionally, they delve into the specifics of setter training, emphasizing the balance between technique and tactical understanding. JUMP TO A TOPIC! 00:00 Return of the Podcast 03:06 Kristen Kelsay: Journey to Head Coach 09:17 The Transition: Finding Confidence and Opportunity 12:16 HS Recruiting Process 21:12 Finding Home: The Michigan State Experience 23:13 The Evolution of Coaching Opportunities 24:33 Transitioning from Player to Coach 27:36 Mentorship and Leadership in Coaching 30:39 The Importance of Strong Female Role Models 33:11 Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution 36:18 Navigating the Changing Landscape of College Sports 41:30 Transformational vs. Transactional Coaching Philosophy 48:21 The Journey of a First-Time Head Coach 51:59 Emotional Challenges in Coaching Transitions 56:44 The Evolution of Setter Training 01:08:19Feedback Dynamics and Coaching Relationships THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR BALLTIME!!!