AD 360

In this episode of AD360, hosts Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg welcome Steve Montoya, Senior Director of Editorial at MaxPreps, to discuss the evolution and growing interest in high school sports. Steve shares his journey with MaxPreps, the impact of social media and live coverage on sports, and the importance of providing exposure for athletes. The conversation also highlights memorable athletes, the rise of girls' flag football, and the future of high school sports. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates01:43 Steve Montoya's Journey with MaxPreps04:54 The Growing Interest in High School Sports10:34 Evolution of High School Sports Coverage16:47 MaxPreps and Its Role in Athlete Exposure21:27 Impact of Data and Rankings on High School Sports25:13 Memorable Athletes and Stories from High School Sports32:25 The Rise of Girls Flag Football36:19 Closing Thoughts and Future of High School Sports

In this episode of AD 360, host Greg Vandermade and co-host Scott Rosenberg talk with Christine Dahle, an athletic trainer at Fountain Valley High School, about the vital role of athletic trainers in sports. They explore Christine's journey into athletic training, the daily responsibilities and challenges faced by athletic trainers, and the importance of communication and relationships with coaches and parents. The conversation also touches on the hiring process for athletic trainers and how their performance can be evaluated effectively.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Athletic Training and Appreciation Month01:36 Christine's Journey into Athletic Training03:42 The Role and Daily Life of an Athletic Trainer06:58 Navigating Relationships with Coaches and Parents08:30 Adapting to Changes and New Mandates11:43 Importance of Communication in Athletic Training18:09 Hiring the Right Athletic Trainer25:43 Evaluating Athletic Trainers' Performance28:04 The Iceberg Analogy: Understanding Athletic Training29:34 Building Trust: The Role of Athletic Trainers31:52 Evaluating Athletic Trainers: The Four C's32:11 Calm Under Pressure: Handling Emergencies35:50 Budgeting for Athletic Training: Essentials vs. Luxuries43:17 Memorable Experiences: A Day in the Life of an Athletic Trainer48:49 Advice for Aspiring Athletic Trainers: Be a Sponge

In this episode, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg engage with Rich Porfido, a former athletic director, discussing the journey of transitioning out of the athletic director role. They explore the importance of leveraging existing connections, identifying suitable job opportunities, and preparing for a smooth transition. The discussion highlights the challenges faced during the transition, the skills that translate well into new roles, and practical steps for athletic directors considering a career change. The speakers emphasize the value of networking, continuous learning, and the need for careful planning when making such a significant career move.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Athletic Directorship and Transitioning Out02:18 The Journey to Becoming an Athletic Director05:24 Recognizing the Need for Change10:04 Mentorship and Guidance in Transition13:48 New Beginnings in Technology17:10 Leveraging Connections for Career Transition19:28 Finding the Right Fit in New Opportunities21:23 Navigating Challenges in Transitioning Careers27:05 Preparing for a Smooth Transition31:57 Identifying Suitable Career Paths for Former ADs35:25 Practical Steps for Athletic Directors Considering Change

In this episode of AD 360, we discuss the rise of girls flag football nationwide with insights from Dr. Jeff Sullivan, Director of Systemwide Athletics for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) in Maryland.Sullivan shares the initial steps to launching a program, overcoming challenges, the importance of community engagement, and the partnerships with NFL teams that have supported the initiative.Our conversation highlights the significant impact of girls flag football on student participation and equity in high school athletics, as well as the future potential of the sport.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Girls Flag Football02:11 Initial Steps to Launching a Program05:03 Overcoming Challenges and Fears08:50 The Impact of New Opportunities10:00 Partnerships with NFL Teams12:03 Building Excitement and Momentum15:07 Training Coaches and Officials18:14 Addressing Unexpected Challenges22:03 The Rise in Popularity of Flag Football24:57 Public Perception and Community Support32:58 Future of Girls Flag Football

In this episode of AD 360, hosts Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberger share their craziest moments from their time as athletic directors. They discuss the challenges faced in their first years, unexpected chaos during game days, budgeting woes, legal troubles, and even encounters with celebrities at sporting events. Through their stories, they highlight the unpredictability of the role and the valuable lessons learned along the way.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Crazy Athletic Director Stories08:11 Unexpected Game Day Chaos14:24 Budgeting Woes and Financial Lessons22:51 Legal Trouble: The Weight of Leadership26:29 Scottie Pippen Story32:05 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss the significance of multi-sport participation in high school athletics. The discussion addresses misconceptions surrounding multi-sport athletes, the impact of travel teams on high school sports, and the importance of balancing commitments for student-athletes involved in multiple activities. This conversation delves into the challenges and benefits of multi-sport participation for student-athletes. It highlights the impact of peer pressure, the role of athletic directors and coaches in fostering a supportive environment, and the influence of parents in encouraging or discouraging multi-sport involvement. The speakers emphasize the importance of communication, collaboration, and education in promoting a culture that values diverse athletic experiences for youth.00:00 Holiday Reflections13:34 Misconceptions and Challenges of Multi-Sport Athletes21:37 Balancing Commitments: Multi-Sport and Multi-Activity Athletes26:38 The Role of Athletic Directors in Multi-Sport Participation33:01 Creating a Collaborative Coaching Culture39:08 The Influence of Parents on Multi-Sport Participation

In this episode, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss the evolving nature of National Letter of Intent (NLI) ceremonies for student-athletes. They explore the importance of planning, budgeting, and coordinating with families and coaches to create memorable events celebrating student athletes' achievements. The conversation highlights best practices for logistics, media engagement, and community involvement, emphasizing the significance of these ceremonies in the context of athletic programs and school marketing.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to NLI Ceremonies07:25 Coordinating with Families and Coaches15:32 Celebrating Student-athletes21:54 Celebrating the Journey of Student-athletes27:26 Equity in Recognition: Celebrating All Athletes37:17 Memorable Moments: Personal Reflections on Signing Day

In this episode, Greg Vandermade, Dennis Nelson, and Scott Rosenberg discuss the intricacies of budgeting in public schools, particularly focusing on athletic departments. They explore the role of the business administrator, the process of determining financial needs for various sports, and the importance of community support through booster clubs. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced in budgeting, including state funding cuts and the necessity of maintaining good relationships with financial administrators. Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Public School Budgeting09:11 Determining Financial Needs for Sports18:26 Leveraging Community Support and Booster Clubs23:46 Challenges in Budgeting and Funding Cuts34:35 Cost-Cutting Strategies Without Compromising Integrity40:52 Advice for New Athletic Directors

In this episode, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss the intricacies of athletic budgeting with Kelly Dullard, the Associate Director of Athletics at Mater Dei High School. They explore the importance of a well-structured budget, the differences between public and private school budgeting, and the key components that contribute to a successful athletic program. Kelly shares his insights on tracking expenses, fundraising, and the necessity of planning for future needs, emphasizing the critical role of organization and transparency in the budgeting process. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Athletic Budgeting04:46 The Importance of a Well-Structured Budget11:54 Starting the Budgeting Process22:10 Key Components of Athletic Budgets30:53 Fundraising Success and Community Support34:23 Building Trust Through Transparency38:02 Navigating Budget Pitfalls41:41 Generating Additional Revenue45:16 Strategies for Budget Cuts49:30 Advice for New Athletic Directors

In this episode, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg dive into the critical role of social media for athletic directors. They discuss how ADs can use social media to connect with their communities, engage with student-athletes, and promote their programs. The conversation covers strategies for maintaining consistency, navigating the dangers of social media, creating effective graphics, and managing crises. The hosts also provide valuable advice for new athletic directors looking to establish their online presence and measure their success in the digital landscape.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Fall Vibes02:45 Using Social Media to Connect with Communities06:17 Exploring Different Social Media Platforms09:34 Strategies for Engagement and Consistency14:04 Navigating the Dangers of Social Media19:05 Creating Effective Social Media Graphics26:28 Behind-the-Scenes Content and Engagement30:03 Crisis Management in Social Media34:57 Advice for New Athletic Directors39:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

In this episode, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss the essential preparations athletic directors must undertake for the winter sports season. They explore the differences in logistics, facility management, transportation, and health and safety protocols compared to other seasons. The conversation also highlights the importance of communication with coaches, parents, and students, as well as the challenges posed by regional variations in weather and sports offerings. The hosts emphasize the need for ADs to balance sports commitments with family activities during the holiday season and the significance of technology in managing events and ensuring safety.Chapters:00:00 Preparing for Winter Sports Season10:21 Logistical Challenges in Winter Sports21:21 Regional Variations in Winter Sports31:01 Balancing Sports and Other Activities40:29 Final Thoughts on Winter Sports Preparation

In this episode of AD 360, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss the importance of senior nights with Amanda Waters-Nelson, an Athletic Director in San Diego. They explore the key elements that make senior nights special, including the role of families, coaches, and community engagement. The conversation covers planning and timing, the significance of playing time for seniors, logistical challenges, and memorable traditions. Amanda emphasizes the need for communication, transparency, and creating a meaningful experience for student-athletes and their families.00:00 Celebrating Senior Nights: An Overview03:10 Key Elements of a Memorable Senior Night08:53 Planning and Timing for Senior Nights14:49 Engaging Families and Communities20:09 Playing Time Considerations for Seniors25:10 Logistical Challenges and Solutions34:48 Memorable Traditions and Unique Approaches41:05 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

In this episode of AD 360, hosts Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg are joined by Atlanta Braves reporter for Bally Sports, Wiley Ballard, to discuss the transformative power of streaming for high school athletics.Wiley shares his journey broadcasting high school, collegiate, and professional sports, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and the unique opportunities that streaming creates for students and fans.The conversation highlights how streaming not only enhances visibility for school events but also fosters a sense of community and pride among students, parents, and alumni. Wiley offers valuable insights for athletic directors and student broadcasters on streaming successfully, emphasizing the need for consistency, flexibility, and a willingness to learn various roles in broadcasting.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Streaming and Fan Engagement02:50 Wiley Ballard's Journey in Broadcasting06:31 The Impact of Streaming on Community Engagement15:41 Enhancing Fan Engagement through Streaming21:41 Accessibility and Connection in High School Sports26:14 Personal Stories Highlighting Streaming's Importance29:58 Comparing Streaming Across Different Levels35:30 Building Campus Community Spirit through Streaming38:32 Advice for Athletic Directors on Streaming47:04 Skills for Young Broadcasters56:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of AD360, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss the importance of effective communication for athletic directors. They cover communication with parents, students, coaches, and the community. They also discuss the importance of involving student-athletes in decision-making and maintaining open lines of communication. Additionally, they address communication challenges, like the evolving landscape of technology and the need to adapt to new communication methods.Chapters00:00 General Communications08:50 Building Trust and Credibility16:25 Involving Student-Athletes25:06 Aligning Coaches with Department Goals31:15 Adapting to the Evolving Landscape

In this episode, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss the responsibilities and challenges of athletic directors during the back-to-school season. They emphasize the importance of proactive planning, effective communication, and building relationships with coaches, teachers, and parents.They also highlight the need for budget management and handling unexpected challenges like equipment delays and game management issues. For new athletic directors, they advise building relationships, staying positive, and asking for what they need.Download Our Pre-Season ChecklistChapters00:00 Introduction and Background04:18 Responsibilities of Athletic Directors06:44 Facility Scheduling and Management10:53 Engaging with Coaches, Teachers, and Parents16:25 Preseason Meetings and Communication20:56 Budgeting and Fundraising25:28 Approach to Budgeting for Equipment31:41 Unexpected Challenges and Handling Them36:18 Advice for New Athletic Directors39:38 Advice for Experienced Athletic Directors42:37 Conclusion

In this episode, Bill Carter, a leading voice in NIL education, sheds light on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) in the context of high school athletics. Join Greg, Scott, and Bill as they explore the definition of NIL, its impact on high school athletes, and the varying perspectives and reactions from schools and state associations. They also address common misconceptions about NIL and the evolving public sentiment towards it.The conversation also examines the pros and cons of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) in high school sports and the long-term implications of NIL in the high school space.Chapters:05:40 Defining NIL and Its Impact on High School Athletics08:25 State Legislation and Varying Perspectives on NIL20:36 Evolving Public Sentiment Towards NIL24:14 Pros and Cons of NIL in High School Sports26:26 Non-Monetary Benefits of NIL for High School Athletes28:25 Drawbacks of NIL for High School Athletes36:09 Regional Impact of NIL in High School Sports42:35 Long-Term Implications of NIL in the High School Space

In this episode, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg interview Paul Jones, a seasoned athletic director, about coaching evaluations. They discuss the importance of building relationships, developing championship human beings, and preparing student-athletes for life. The group also explores the role of metrics and data in evaluations, the challenges of evaluating different sports, and the value of student-athlete feedback. They also touch on the challenges of making difficult decisions and the ongoing nature of evaluations. The conversation concludes with a discussion on staying current with best evaluation practices.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Welcome05:01 Building Relationships and Developing Championship Human Beings09:16 Balancing Metrics and Data with the Intangibles13:11 Challenges and Strategies for Evaluating Different Sports19:23 Continuous Improvement in Coaching Evaluations26:06 The Importance of Culture in Evaluations31:29 Accountability and Leadership in Successful Programs33:23 Navigating Difficult Decisions in Evaluations38:35 Staying Up to Date with Best Practices in Evaluations

In this episode, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss how athletic directors can best use AI to be more efficient. They explore various ways in which AI can be leveraged, such as, creating articles, job descriptions, safety plans, press releases, surveys, and banquet speeches. They also discuss how AI can be used in live streaming events, providing equitable coverage for all programs, and analyzing stats and data. They also touch on the future of AI in athletics and the importance of early adoption and familiarity with AI tools. The conversation concludes with the hosts generating interview questions for a head girls volleyball coach position using AI.00:00 Introduction and Overview of AI in Athletics08:46 Streamlining Processes with AI in Athletics26:09 The Future of AI in Athletics32:13 Using AI for Note-Taking, Promotion, and Performance Analysis

In this episode, Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss the importance of Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) in athletic departments. They highlight the need for proactive planning to minimize the impact of emergencies and ensure the safety of athletes and staff.The conversation covers the components of an EAP, including facility information, emergency contacts, and procedures for different scenarios. They emphasize the importance of collaboration with other departments, such as police and EMS, and the use of resources like athletic trainers.The hosts also discuss the equipment and training necessary for EAPs and the need for regular practice and rehearsals. The episode concludes with the availability of an EAP template for schools to use as a starting point in creating their own plans.Download Our EAP TemplateChapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:11 What is an Emergency Action Plan (EAP)?06:13 Resources and Training for EAPs10:02 Equipment and Supplies for EAPs13:31 Collaboration and Involvement of Other Departments16:32 Creating and Customizing EAPs21:53 Practice and Rehearsals for EAPs25:35 Importance and Benefits of EAPs26:04 Conclusion and EAP Template

SummaryIn this episode, former Athletic Directors Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg discuss event management for spring sports.They cover the challenges and complexities of scheduling events, managing personnel, and creating a positive game-day experience.You'll also learn more about the importance of emergency action plans and working with other departments to ensure smooth operations.The episode concludes with a discussion on hiring and scheduling event personnel, along with the use of technology for game-day management.Chapters00:28 Scott's Perspective on Spring Sports Season03:06 Difficulties in Game Management Personnel04:28 Planning for the Spring Season05:35 Creating and Managing a Game Day Experience06:05 Preparing for the Unexpected09:20 Hiring and Scheduling Game Day Personnel09:57 Tools for Game Day Management14:25 Challenges of Spring Sports23:08 Working with Other Departments27:28 Hiring and Scheduling Game Day Personnel31:25 Tools for Game Day Management34:30 Conclusion and Future Topics

Join us for our first episode of AD 360, where our hosts Greg Vandermade and Scott Rosenberg recap the National AD Conference and share best practices for professional development. Discover new opportunities to elevate your program, support your students, and advance your career. Topics00:00 - Introduction and Background01:24 - Feedback on the National AD Show03:21 - Importance of Professional Development04:09 - Approaching Events and Prioritizing07:04 - Networking and Building a Network16:02 - Recommended Events to Attend17:23 - Funding for Events22:11 - Wrap-up and Future Topics HostsGreg Vandermade Scott RosenbergProducersCole AycockAmanda Crowder