Why Relationships Matter in Coaching and Athlete Development?
Welcome to Oak Performance Radio, the podcast dedicated to optimizing performance and minimizing injury. Hosted by Adam Lane, this episode features Coach Patrick Freeman, Executive Director of VC United, a leading junior volleyball club in Rockford, Illinois.
Episode Highlights:
The Power of Relationships in Coaching. Great coaching is more than drills and game plans—it’s about building trust, consistency, and understanding athletes as individuals.

Patrick Freeman shares his insights on why relationships are at the core of successful coaching and long-term player development. With experience managing 80 part-time coaches and overseeing club operations, he understands the balance between business, coaching, and athlete growth.
Episode Chapters: 

00:00 Intro

00:10 Introduction and Host

38:09 Patrick's Role and Responsibilities

38:22 Coaching Experience and Philosophy

38:37 Building Relationships with Athletes 

38:47 Challenges and Strategies in Coaching

39:01 Advice for Parents and Supporting Athletes

Key Insights from This Episode

• The Role of a Club Director: How Patrick oversees VC United and supports both full-time and part-time staff.
• The Importance of Consistency: Why athletes thrive when coaches provide stable and reliable guidance.
• Letting Athletes Fail: How failure fosters growth and resilience in young players.
• Parental Support Without Over-Coaching: The best ways parents can encourage their kids without adding pressure.
• Developing the Mental Game: Preparing athletes mentally, not just physically, for competition.
• Managing a Full-Time Sports Club: The challenges of running a top-tier volleyball program while ensuring sustainability.

Connect with Patrick Freeman & VC United
@wearevcunited
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