In September 2024, we proudly announced a transformative partnership with the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) to launch the first-ever IWLCA ASPIRE Program. This innovative professional development initiative empowers assistant coaches in women’s lacrosse with essential tools and insights to lead the future of the sport. ASPIRE reflects the IWLCA’s commitment to fostering professional growth, leadership, and the development of expertise among women’s lacrosse coaches.
Led by Sarah McQuade and Julie Muller, this program will support an inaugural cohort of 18 assistant coaches throughout the 2024–2025 academic year.
Introducing the First ASPIRE Cohort: 18 Coaches on a Path to Leadership
The initial ASPIRE cohort features 18 coaches from NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, each representing the future of women’s lacrosse coaching. Through this program, they’ll gain the tools and skills necessary to excel as impactful coaches and leaders in women’s sports.
ASPIRE Program Overview: A Unique Focus on Coaching Development
The ASPIRE Program will run through the Spring of 2025, guiding participants through a structured series of modules aimed at developing their professional and personal capabilities. The key themes are centered around:
Laying the Foundations
Developing Self
Working With Others
Continuing the Coaching Journey
Unlike conventional coaching programs, ASPIRE emphasizes the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills that make coaches effective leaders, beyond technical expertise.
Program Milestones: Foundational Themes and Learning Experiences
Two months into the program, ASPIRE coaches have engaged in a rich blend of self-paced online modules, interactive webinars, and personalized mentoring.
To enhance engagement, e.t.c. has partnered with MiMentor to deliver the ASPIRE curriculum through an interactive online platform, creating a robust, supportive learning experience.
Online courses and webinars have touched on various subjects including:
Reflective Practice
Sense-making of the DiSC assessment all coaches were asked to complete
The what's, how's, and why's of professional networking
How to create/ evolve a coaching philosophy
Creating a Cohesive Coaching Community
A cornerstone of the ASPIRE Program is building a supportive community of practice among the coaches. This collaborative environment fosters shared insights, ongoing support, and a strong network that will benefit participants throughout their careers.
Julie and I look forward to meeting this dedicated cohort at the IWLCA Convention in November 2024, where we’ll continue to deepen their journey as the next generation of leaders in women’s lacrosse.
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