Coach’s IDEA
Welcome to the Coach’s IDEA podcast. I am your host Marvin Okello. We would like to acknowledge that the land on which the Canadian Sport Institute Atlantic’s office, and training facility is located, is the unceded territory of the Mi‘kmaq people. The meaning behind the IDEA acronym is Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (in both physical and financial aspects). The podcast’s purpose is to share the stories from the many diverse coaches across Atlantic Canada and their experiences. Through representation, the aim is to educate and spread awareness about the issues that coaches and athletes face in modern society when participating in sport by speaking to many diverse voices who are willing to share their experiences and learnings. Thanks to local musician Quake Matthews for providing his music for the intro and outro. Check out his new album roses out now on all platforms!
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Episodes
Thursday May 23, 2024
Thursday May 23, 2024
Welcome to the Coaches' Idea Podcast, hosted by Marvin Okello. In this episode, we dive into the world of mental performance consulting with our esteemed guests, Nicole Kuzmich and Simon Taylor. Both certified mental performance consultants at CSIA, Nicole and Simon share their unique journeys and insights into their work with coaches.
Nicole, a former international figure skater, and Simon, who comes from a golf background, discuss the importance of safeguarding athletes and the concept of safe sport. They emphasize the collective responsibility of coaches, parents, and the community in creating a supportive environment for youth in sports.
We explore the correlation between physical and mental health, the challenges of working with youth, and the importance of setting boundaries to prevent burnout. Nicole introduces the concept of "yellow flags" as a proactive approach to identifying potential issues, while Simon highlights resources for coaches to further their education in mental health and performance.
Join us for an enlightening conversation that underscores the importance of letting kids be kids, balancing performance with well-being, and empowering youth to find their voices in the world of sports.
Don't miss this episode filled with valuable insights and practical advice for anyone involved in the sporting community.
Monday May 13, 2024
Monday May 13, 2024
In this episode of the "Coaches' Idea" podcast, host Marvin Okello and his guest, Dave Green, delve into the topics of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) in sports. Green, a respected community leader and Diversity and Inclusion specialist, takes listeners on a journey of his experiences in the realm of sports, from his days as a pro athlete to his current role promoting IDEA. An engaging narrative is presented, weaving together the paths of host and guest while touching on Green's commitment to the Canadian Canoe Kayak team in Chula Vista, California. Don't miss this riveting episode covering an oft-overlooked aspect of the sporting world and how people like Green are making a positive impact.
From a Sports Fan to a Beacon of Sports Accessibility: Inspiring Journey of a Change-Maker
This episode of the 'Coaches' Idea' podcast takes listeners on an inspiring journey of changing the sports industry through passion, dedication and a will to make sports accessible to children from all backgrounds. Our transforming journey takes us from a small neighborhood in Grand Falls, Windsor, to successful sports management careers and the creation of FUNSports - a full-fledged organization dedicated to making sports accessible to all children. Listen to this heartfelt tale of love, resilience, and profound change in the sports landscape.
Rising Above Adversity: From a Child Refugee to a Celebrated Sportsperson
Join us as we embark on an unforgettable journey with Marvin Okello, a former child refugee from Kenya who became a renowned sportsperson. Marvin shares his incredible story of survival, resilience, and success. Despite the challenges of cultural differences, language barriers, and incidents of racism, Marvin followed his passion for sports, which helped him turn his struggles into strength and success. This episode is much more than a tale of grit and perseverance; it’s a compelling exploration of identity, immigration, and the transformative power of sports.
An Unflinching Stand Against Racism: Marvin's Journey in Sports as a Young Immigrant
In this poignant episode, Marvin uncovers the harsh realities of racism he experienced as a young immigrant and colored athlete. From being a refugee to university life, Marvin offers insight into the prejudices he faced and how sports provided him a safe haven from society's biases. Even in the face of adversity, Marvin was inspired to fight racism, and today he is a passionate advocate for diversity and representation in sports coaching. This episode emphasizes the power of sports as an escape, a sanctuary, and a vehicle for personal growth - all through the lens of one man's inspiring, resilient journey.
Unveiling the Power of Multi-Sport Athletes
Join us in an inspiring discussion emphasizing the power and potential of multi-sport athletes. Our guest unveils the enormous benefits that mastering multiple sports can bring - both to the individual and society. The conversation explores the value of community-focused sporting initiatives, shares stories of young coaches breaking racial stereotypes, and reinforces the idea that FUN is vital in sports and athlete engagement. So, don't miss out on this enlightening episode that dares to look at sports from a newer and broader perspective.
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Welcome to the first episode of the Coach's IDEA podcast.
Allison Saunders is the Canadian Sport Institute Atlantic’s Community Coaching Lead and has been selected to coach the female indoor volleyball team for the 2025 Canada Games. Allison is a high level volleyball player who began coaching as a way of giving back to the community by creating high performance pathways for athletes and coaches. Allison is the lead for the CSIA's VIP Coaching program among many other hats she wears for CSIA.
Tyler Simmons is an activist, teacher and community leader from North Preston. Tyler has been selected to coach the male indoor volleyball team for the 2025 Canada Games. Tyler was a mentee in the Black Indigenous Coaching Mentorship Program and is now a mentor for the program.
Allison and Tyler share their reasons for beginning coaching, dealing with imposter syndrome, and why culture, diversity and inclusion are important in sport.
The 2024 Atlantic Coaching Conference is on April 19/20 at the Atlantica on Robie street in downtown Halifax. The link to purchase tickets is here https://whova.com/portal/registration/atlan_202405/
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