The Assistant Desk

About The Assistant Desk

Welcome to The Assistant Desk, the podcast covering the people behind college sports programs. Assistant coaches, coordinators, recruiters, and the stories fans rarely get to hear!

Publisher

The Assistant Desk Podcast

Category

sports

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

28 May 2026

Latest episode

15 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 Oct 2026

   Season 3 Episode 3: Dan Johnson - Saint Michael's College - Men's Lacrosse

   Join us for an insightful episode of the Assistant Desk podcast featuring Coach Dan Johnson from Saint Michael's College! 🎙️ Discover his journey from player to coach, the challenges of building a successful lacrosse program, and the importance of balancing academics and athletics. Key takeaways: The significance of proactivity in recruiting How to maximize student-athlete potential The evolution of coaching styles and communication Insights on the culture at Saint Michael's College Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:31 Welcome Coach Dan Johnson 01:06 Coach's Journey to St. Michael's 02:21 Coaching Philosophy and Experience 05:42 Balancing Academics and Athletics 10:05 Building a Successful Program 15:12 The Importance of Team Culture 20:00 Recruiting Challenges and Opportunities 25:30 Advice for Young Coaches and Recruits What's your biggest challenge in balancing sports and academics? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights on coaching and lacrosse! #Lacrosse #Coaching #StudentAthlete

2. 

   8 Oct 2026

   Season 3 Episode 2: Michael Salazar - Grand Canyon University - Men's Golf

   Join us as we dive into the world of college golf with Coach Michael Salazar, the men's assistant golf coach at Grand Canyon University! Discover the ins and outs of collegiate golf, the recruiting process, and what it takes to succeed on and off the course. Whether you're a player or a fan, this episode is packed with insights and stories that will inspire you to elevate your game! Key takeaways: The importance of networking in college golf How to approach recruiting as a young player Insights into the coaching dynamic and player development The significance of course management and mental game strategies Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:31 Meet Coach Michael Salazar 02:18 How Coach Salazar got into college coaching 06:45 The recruiting process explained 12:30 Coaching individual players in a team sport 20:07 The importance of character in recruiting 25:15 Navigating the world of college golf 30:45 The role of facilities and resources in player development 35:00 Course management strategies 40:00 Lessons learned from coaching 45:00 Best courses played and future aspirations 50:00 Advice for young golfers and coaches What's your biggest challenge with college golf? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights into the world of sports coaching and player development! #CollegeGolf #GolfCoaching #GrandCanyonUniversity

3. 

   1 Oct 2026

   Season 3 Episode 1: Brian Volpi - Adelphi University

   Join us for an insightful episode of the Assistant Desk podcast as we dive into the world of coaching with Brian Volpi, the national championship Assistant Coach from Adelphi University! 🏆 In this episode, we discuss: The evolution of coaching styles and strategies The importance of building a strong team culture Lessons learned from past seasons and how they shape future success The unique challenges and rewards of being an assistant coach Key takeaways: Embrace the journey and learn from every experience The significance of communication and trust within a team How to handle the pressures of competition and expectations Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Brian Volpi's coaching journey 05:00 Building a winning culture 10:00 Lessons from past seasons 15:00 The role of an assistant coach 20:00 Advice for young coaches What's your biggest challenge in coaching? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more coaching insights and stories from the field! #Coaching #Lacrosse #AssistantCoach

4. 

   10 Sept 2026

   SPECIAL EDITION: Pat Colleluori - HEADstrong

   Join us for a special edition of the Assistant Desk podcast featuring Pat Colleluori from Headstrong! 🎙️ In this episode, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Nick's House and how it supports families navigating cancer treatment. Pat shares the incredible story of his brother Nick, who faced cancer with unwavering strength and compassion. Discover how Nick's legacy continues to impact countless lives through Headstrong's mission to provide a home away from home for families in need. Key takeaways: 00:00 Introduction to the podcast and special guest Pat Colleluori 00:31 Overview of Headstrong and its mission 02:01 Unveiling Nick's House Village in Durham, NC 04:21 The importance of community support for families 06:53 Nick's story and the inspiration behind Headstrong 10:11 How Headstrong helps families navigate cancer treatment 12:23 The impact of the lacrosse community on Headstrong 15:00 Final thoughts and how to get involved What's your biggest challenge with supporting families in need? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more inspiring stories and insights from the world of sports and community support. #Headstrong #CancerAwareness #LacrosseCommunity

5. 

   3 Sept 2026

   Season 2 Episode 4: Head Coach Kyle Smith - Umass Amherst

   Join us for an insightful episode with Kyle Smith, head coach of UMass Amherst men's lacrosse! Discover his journey from assistant to head coach, the importance of team culture, and how his family's legacy in lacrosse shapes his coaching philosophy. Key takeaways: The significance of camaraderie in sports Navigating the transition from assistant to head coach Building a strong coaching staff and culture The impact of family legacy in lacrosse Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Welcome Kyle Smith 01:12 Kyle's journey to UMass 02:11 The Smith family's lacrosse legacy 06:20 Coaching philosophy and culture 11:28 Lessons learned as an assistant 15:57 Building a coaching staff 20:32 The importance of alumni engagement 26:15 Challenges of being a head coach 31:22 Advice for young coaches Subscribe for more insights into coaching and lacrosse! #Lacrosse #Coaching #UMass

6. 

   27 Aug 2026

   Season 2 Episode 3: Head Coach John Galloway - Jacksonville University

   Join us for an insightful conversation with Head Coach John Galloway of Jacksonville University as we dive into the world of lacrosse coaching! Discover the journey of building a successful program, the importance of mentorship, and how to foster a winning culture.Key takeaways:-The significance of player-led leadership-Balancing personal and professional growth in coaching-Strategies for maintaining team morale during tough seasons-The role of family and community in coachingTimestamps:00:00 Introduction01:23 Coach Galloway's background and journey02:40 The importance of mentorship in coaching05:18 Building a winning culture at Jacksonville08:37 Keeping players motivated through challenges10:44 The impact of family on coachingWhat's your biggest challenge in coaching? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more coaching insights and stories from the world of lacrosse!#Lacrosse #Coaching #Mentorship

7. 

   20 Aug 2026

   Season 2 Episode 2 Part 2: Tim Boyle - Wingate University

   Join us for an inspiring episode of the Assistant Desk Podcast as we sit down with Coach Tim Boyle, head coach of Wingate University Men's Lacrosse. Discover the journey of a coach who has shaped countless athletes and learn about the core values that drive his program. Key takeaways: The importance of mentorship in coaching How to build a strong team culture Insights on recruiting and developing players The significance of finishing a season on a high note What's your biggest challenge with coaching? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights and stories from the world of sports! #Lacrosse #Coaching #Mentorship

8. 

   13 Aug 2026

   Season 2 Episode 2 Part 1: Tim Boyle - Wingate University

   Join us for an inspiring episode of the Assistant Desk Podcast as we sit down with Coach Tim Boyle, head coach of Wingate University Men's Lacrosse. Discover the journey of a coach who has shaped countless athletes and learn about the core values that drive his program.Key takeaways:-The importance of mentorship in coaching-How to build a strong team culture-Insights on recruiting and developing players-The significance of finishing a season on a high noteWhat's your biggest challenge with coaching? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more insights and stories from the world of sports!#Lacrosse #Coaching #Mentorship

9. 

   6 Aug 2026

   Season 2|Episode 1: Richard Carrington - Haverford College Men's Lacrosse

   Welcome to Season 2 of the Assistant Desk Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, we dive deep into the world of coaching with Richard Carrington, head coach at Haverford College. Discover insights on building a successful coaching staff, the importance of relationships with players, and the evolving role of assistant coaches in today's game. Key takeaways: The significance of being yourself as a coach How to effectively evaluate players and assistants The importance of clarity and care in coaching Tips for building a strong coaching culture Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:58 Meet Coach Richard Carrington 02:12 Coaching Journey 05:04 Building Relationships 10:30 Evaluating Players 15:00 The Role of Assistant Coaches 20:00 Advice for Young Coaches 25:00 Final Thoughts What's your biggest challenge in coaching? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more coaching insights and tips! #Coaching #Lacrosse #AssistantCoach

10. 

    16 Jul 2026

    Episode 8: Christian Thomas - Merrimack College Men's Lacrosse

    Ever wondered what it’s really like transitioning from player to coach especially when it’s at the same school you played for?Drop a like and follow if you're curious about the behind-the-scenes struggles of shifting roles and gaining new respect.When I started coaching at Merrimack, I was in a tough spot — coaching guys I’d just played with for years. It’s a weird dynamic, but it’s all about earning their trust while proving you’re there for them — not just as a former teammate.It’s a constant balancing act: managing relationships, pushing boundaries, but always staying genuine. That journey from teammate to coach? It’s filled with challenges, surprises, and real moments of growth.And honestly? The hardest part was learning to lead without losing the camaraderie I valued so much as a player.What was your biggest leap in a career or role you never saw coming?Worth thinking about.#CoachingLife #PlayerToCoach #LacrosseJourney #GrowthMindset #LeadershipSkills

11. 

    9 Jul 2026

    Episode 7: Mike Montross - Georgetown University Men's Soccer

    Join us for an insightful episode of the Assistant Desk podcast as we dive into the world of coaching with Mike Montrose, Assistant Coach for Georgetown Men's Soccer! ⚽️In this episode, we discuss:-The journey of becoming a coach and the importance of relationships in sports.-The impact of the transfer portal on recruiting and how it has changed the landscape for high school athletes.-Valuable lessons learned from both wins and losses, including a memorable final four match against Maryland.-Advice for young coaches on building their careers and the significance of being honest and hard on players.Key takeaways:-Building trust and relationships is crucial for success in coaching.-The importance of developing players both on and off the field.-How to handle the challenges of recruiting in today's competitive environment.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 Mike Montrose's coaching journey01:40 The impact of the transfer portal03:00 Lessons from wins and losses05:00 Advice for young coachesWhat's your biggest challenge in coaching? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more insights into the world of sports coaching!#Coaching #Soccer #SportsLeadership

12. 

    2 Jul 2026

    Episode 6: National Champion Assistant Coach Casey Dowd - Princeton Men's Lacrosse

    Join us for an insightful episode of the Assistant Desk Podcast featuring Coach Casey Dowd, assistant coach of the Princeton Tigers and national champion! In this episode, we dive deep into Coach Dowd's journey through the world of lacrosse coaching, discussing the highs and lows of the season, the importance of building a strong team culture, and the lessons learned from both victories and defeats.Key takeaways:-The significance of trust and support in coaching-How to handle pressure and maintain a fun atmosphere-The value of being a multi-sport athlete-Insights on recruiting and the importance of relationshipsTimestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 Welcome Coach Casey Dowd01:00 Coach Dowd's journey to Princeton02:15 The importance of team culture05:00 Lessons learned from the season10:00 Recruiting insights15:00 The role of multi-sport athletes20:00 Final thoughts and advice for young coachesWhat's your biggest takeaway from this episode? Drop your thoughts in the comments!Subscribe for more coaching insights and stories from the world of lacrosse!#Lacrosse #Coaching #AssistantDeskPodcast

13. 

    25 Jun 2026

    Episode 5: Andrew Cobain D1 Men's Basketball

    Join us for an insightful conversation with Andrew Cobian, a Division 1 college basketball coach, as we dive into the world of coaching, player development, and the challenges of the recruiting landscape. Discover how Andrew navigates the complexities of coaching at the collegiate level and the impact of the transfer portal on team dynamics. Key takeaways: The importance of building relationships with players and staff. How to adapt coaching styles to fit the team you have. Insights on the recruiting process and the significance of the transfer portal. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:51 Andrew's coaching journey 02:20 Lessons learned from early coaching experiences 04:30 The grind of being an assistant coach 06:45 Balancing personal life and coaching 09:00 The impact of the transfer portal 12:15 Building a winning culture 15:00 Advice for aspiring coaches What's your biggest challenge in coaching? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more coaching insights and stories! #Coaching #Basketball #PlayerDevelopment

14. 

    18 Jun 2026

    Episode 4: Abby Tepper - Merrimack College Woman's Lacrosse

    Join us for an insightful episode with Abby Tepper, head coach of women's lacrosse at Merrimack College! Discover her journey from player to coach, the challenges of building a winning culture, and the importance of teamwork and hustle in sports. 🥍 Key takeaways: Abby's coaching philosophy and how she builds relationships with her players. The significance of creating a positive team culture and the impact of gratitude in sports. Insights on recruiting and what coaches look for in potential athletes. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Abby's journey to coaching 01:27 Coaching philosophy and building relationships 02:41 The importance of team culture 03:53 Recruiting insights 05:00 Advice for young athletes What's your biggest challenge in sports? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more coaching insights and stories from the world of sports! #WomensLacrosse #Coaching #TeamCulture

15. 

    11 Jun 2026

    Episode 3: Ben Garcia - Drexel Men's Lacrosse

    Join us on the Assistant Desk Podcast as we dive into the coaching journey of Ben Garcia from Drexel Men's Lacrosse! Discover his insights on coaching, recruiting, and the challenges faced as an assistant coach in the competitive world of college lacrosse. Key takeaways: Ben's path to coaching and his experiences at Drexel The importance of creativity in coaching and keeping players engaged Insights on recruiting: talent vs. culture fit The significance of building relationships in the lacrosse community Lessons learned from both wins and losses in high school and college Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:26 Ben's coaching journey 00:57 Challenges as an assistant coach 02:29 The importance of creativity in coaching 05:00 Insights on recruiting 10:00 Building relationships in lacrosse 15:00 Lessons from wins and losses 20:00 Final thoughts and advice for aspiring coaches What's your biggest challenge with coaching or recruiting? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights on coaching and lacrosse! #Lacrosse #Coaching #Recruiting

16. 

    4 Jun 2026

    Episode 2: Cole Pecora - UMass Amherst Men's Lacrosse

    In this episode of the Assistant Desk Podcast, we dive deep into the world of coaching with Cole Pecora from UMass Amherst Men's Lacrosse. Discover the journey of an assistant coach, the challenges faced, and the lessons learned along the way. Key takeaways: * The importance of building relationships in recruiting. * Insights on transitioning from D3 to D1 coaching. * The impact of the transfer portal on college lacrosse.* How to handle tough conversations with players. * The value of passion in coaching and life. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:24 Cole Pecora joins the podcast 01:00 Coaching journey and experiences 04:00 Transitioning from D3 to D1 10:00 The role of the transfer portal 15:00 Building relationships in recruiting 20:00 Challenges of being an assistant coach 25:00 Advice for young coaches 30:00 Final thoughts and reflections What's your biggest challenge with coaching? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights into the world of coaching #Lacrosse #Coaching #AssistantCoaches

17. 

    28 May 2026

    Episode 01: Chris Piatelli - Springfield College Men's Lacrosse

    Join us as we sit down with Chris Piatelli, an assistant coach at Springfield College, who shares the behind-the-scenes realities of coaching at the Division III level amidst the grind of recruiting, relationships, and building culture. Discover how his unique background, from playing hockey and lacrosse across the globe to coaching at various schools, shaped his approach to mentorship and program success. In this episode, Chris takes us on a deep dive into a typical day at Springfield, contrasting the roles of assistant and head coach, and offering insight into the critical skills often overlooked, like relationship building, professionalism, and adaptability. You'll learn how his team's core identity "Chief Dogs" embodies the hardworking, loyal, and family-oriented culture Springfield champions. Plus, get a glimpse into the recruiting mindset, what coaches look for in prospects, and how to navigate the challenging landscape of college recruitment from the coaches' perspective. We break down practical advice for parents, players, and aspiring coaches alike: why every call matters, how to stay motivated on long road trips, and the importance of maintaining balance with family and personal growth. Chris’s journey from growing up in Boston, coaching youth, to international play in Australia, illuminates how relationships and experience forge paths in this demanding profession. Why does Springfield produce some of the most respected coaches in lacrosse? Because they prioritize developing the whole person, great teammates, motivated students, and future leaders. This episode is essential listening for anyone wanting to understand what truly goes into cultivating championship culture behind the scenes, or how to carve out a meaningful career in lacrosse coaching. Whether you're a parent guiding your child's athletic journey, an aspiring college coach, or a player eager to learn what recruiters and coaches seek, this episode offers invaluable insights to help you succeed in the sport and beyond.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Contact The Assistant Desk

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

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