What happens when tradition meets transformation? For Coach Kelli Barnett, it meant stepping into a brand-new role at Wichita Falls Memorial High School—formed from the consolidation of three legacy campuses—and turning a blank slate into a platform for something extraordinary. In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, Coach Barnett shares how she laid the groundwork for a culture of character, trust, and resilience among her volleyball athletes.

By anchoring her program in character development and a shared mantra—"The Standard"—Coach Barnett reveals what it takes to unite athletes from different schools, build trust among teammates, and create a team-first mindset. From offseason workouts to character conversations, this episode offers a playbook for coaches looking to build more than just winning teams. It's about building strong, confident young women who lead with heart—on and off the court.

Key Takeaways

• Start With Character: Coach Barnett focused on character development from day one to unify her team and establish core expectations.
• Trust Is Earned: Team trust was built through consistent workouts, shared experiences, and intentional conversations.
• Define "The Standard": Her program's mantra embodies resilience, accountability, and showing up—even on the tough days.
• Create Pressure Situations: Using time-limited or high-stakes drills helps athletes grow comfortable with discomfort.
• Culture Is Lived, Not Posted: Core values only matter if they're practiced daily—not just printed on shirts or walls.
• Build Player-Led Teams: Empower athletes to hold each other accountable and lead through example.
• Consistency Builds Buy-In: Daily commitment to expectations fosters deep program-wide belief and cohesion.
• Leadership Through Relationship: Coach Barnett's "Big and Little Sis" initiative strengthens cross-grade mentorship.
• Pressure Is a Privilege: Teaching athletes to embrace tough moments helps them develop perseverance and poise.
• Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing: Coaching is ultimately about growing people, not just players.

CONTACT COACH BARNET: [email protected]

COACH 360 IS PRESENTED BY: 2Words Character Development

Interested in connecting or taking the next step with 2Words Character Development? Let us know! Email Colton Leonard at: [email protected] Visit http://www.2words.tv/preview to learn more and for a free week of the curriculum.

JOIN 2WORDS ON SPORTSYOU

Interested in regular encouragement on the SportsYou platform? 2W has a dedicated page on sportsYou where we share encouragements for coaches and athletes 2-3 times a week! Click here to join our sportsYou page. Use the access code C4CB-DN5T when prompted.

The Texas Way Sportsmanship Initiative

Interested in registering for The Texas Way? Join the initiative at: www.PlayTheTexasWay.com

COACH 360 IS SPONSORED BY: ProMaxima

PMX ProMaxima is your one stop shop for the ultimate fitness equipment solution. From strength to cardio, They manufacture a wide range of high-quality products made in the USA to maximize your teams performance.

Experience the difference with PMX ProMaxima and see why thousands of athletes and schools trust them. Visit http://pmxstrength.com/ today to explore their catalog and elevate your fitness journey.