In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, host Connor Agnew sits down with Nick DaCosta, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Appalachian State University. Nick opens up about his climb from intern to coach at the same university, and what lessons he’s carried with him along the way. He discusses his work with diverse teams—like field hockey and cheer—his takeaways from the Starting Strength Seminar, and how continuous learning has shaped his approach. For Nick, trust and adaptability aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the keys to long-term success.

• Adaptability is essential in navigating different sports and athlete needs.

• Trust is the foundation of athlete-coach relationships.

• Mentorship significantly impacts career development.

• Working with international athletes requires cultural sensitivity.

• Continued education helps coaches stay relevant and effective.

• Understanding sport-specific demands improves training outcomes.

• Personal fitness goals enhance coaching credibility.

• Monitoring athlete load is vital for preventing injury.

• Strong staff bonds enhance collaboration and morale.

• Learning from seminars and practical experience is invaluable.

“That was the biggest thing for me is just building the trust with them… Once that was instilled in their minds and they were like, wow, this is actually awesome for us… that’s where you build that.”

— Nick DaCosta

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