In this episode of Wildcast, head coach Tom Leeser discusses the achievements of the Penn College Men and Women's Cross Country teams, reflecting on their success in 2024 and setting expectations for 2025. The conversation covers the challenges of maintaining success, the dynamics of the women's team, training strategies, and the development of a new course for competitions. Coach Leeser emphasizes the importance of preparation and teamwork as they approach the championship meet.

In this episode, Coach Kyle Hawk discusses his journey as the head coach of the women's volleyball program, reflecting on the previous season's small victories and the excitement of starting fresh with a new team in his second season. He emphasizes the importance of building a positive team culture, identifying key players, and preparing strategically for the upcoming season. The conversation also touches on the anticipation surrounding the new gym and the home opener, as well as the challenges and opportunities presented by the conference schedule.

In this conversation, Coach Ian Scheller and senior captain Brooke Klinger discuss the upcoming 2025 women's soccer season, reflecting on the previous year's successes and challenges. They emphasize the importance of leadership, player development, and the impact of a strong senior class. The discussion also covers preseason preparations, key players to watch, and the strategic approach to non-conference games to ensure the team is well-prepared for the competitive landscape ahead.

In this episode, Coach Mensch and Hunter Gabloff discuss the transition from a successful previous season to the upcoming 2025 men's soccer season. They reflect on the challenges of losing key players, the excitement of a large incoming freshman class, and the importance of leadership and team dynamics. The conversation emphasizes the need for patience and focus on team chemistry as they prepare for the season ahead, while also highlighting key players to watch and setting realistic expectations.

In this episode, Amber Savage, the new softball coach at Penn College, shares her journey from a successful athlete to a dedicated coach. She reflects on her experiences playing under legendary coach Hutchinson, the impact of the Silver Bullets organization, and her bold decision to shift careers after facing a cancer diagnosis. Amber emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and maintaining a positive outlook in both sports and life. Her coaching philosophy centers around empowering young athletes and fostering a love for the game.

In this episode of WildCast, host Matt Blymier interviews Peyton Mussina, a decorated golfer from Penn College. They discuss Peyton's journey from high school to college golf, the influence of his family, particularly his father, and the mental challenges of the sport. Peyton shares memorable moments from his NCAA tournament experiences and reflects on his future aspirations in golf and beyond, emphasizing the importance of preparation and mindset in competitive sports.

In this engaging conversation, Chris Howard, the head baseball coach at Penn College, shares his remarkable journey from a multi-sport athlete to a successful coach. He reflects on his early experiences in sports, the challenges of transitioning from football to baseball, and the unexpected twists of the Major League Draft. Chris discusses his coaching philosophy, the importance of building relationships with players, and the values that drive his program's success. He emphasizes the significance of recruiting the right athletes and the lasting impact of memorable moments beyond just wins and losses.

takeaways

• Chris Howard has a rich background in both football and baseball.
• He transitioned from football to baseball during college, following his passion.
• The Major League Draft experience was nerve-wracking and surprising for Chris.
• Williamsport holds a special place in Chris's heart, connecting his past and present.
• Coaching was not an immediate path for Chris; he found his way back to the game.
• Winning the first conference championship was a pivotal moment for Penn College baseball.
• Chris emphasizes the importance of recruiting the right type of student-athletes.
• Building relationships with players is a key aspect of coaching for Chris.
• Success in sports is not just about winning; it's about the experiences and relationships formed.
• Chris aims to prepare his players for life beyond baseball.

In this conversation, Jordan Williams, the head men's lacrosse coach at Penn College, shares his coaching journey, the lessons learned from various coaching positions, and the challenges faced during his transition to head coach. He discusses his coaching philosophy, the importance of building relationships, and the strategies he employs for recruiting student-athletes. Additionally, he reflects on memorable moments both on and off the field, as well as his personal interests outside of coaching.

takeaways

• The importance of building relationships with players.
• Recruiting is about effort and persistence.
• Coaching requires a strong work ethic and passion.
• Authenticity is key in developing a coaching style.
• Starting a program involves understanding culture and recruitment.
• Tough conversations are essential for growth.
• Service, gratitude, and grit are core values.
• Self-policing culture is vital for team dynamics.
• Identifying the right student-athletes is crucial for success.
• Personal interests can enhance coaching effectiveness.