Leading on and off the Field: Jack Combs on Mindset, Training, & Thriving as a College Athlete

Summary
In this episode of the You Can't Fool You podcast, host Rockne O'Leary speaks with Jack Combs, a sophomore captain of the Vermont lacrosse team. They discuss the importance of leadership, mindset, and preparation in athletics, as well as the challenges of balancing school, sports, and social life. Jack shares his insights on visualization techniques, the significance of strength training, and the value of mentorship in navigating the journey from high school to college athletics. In this conversation, Jack Combs and Rockne O'Leary discuss the importance of building a strong fitness foundation before progressing to weight training, the transition from high school to college athletics, the essence of leadership based on trust, the role of failure as a learning tool, and reflections on personal growth and advice for younger athletes.

Takeaways

• Mindset and preparation are crucial for athletic success.
• Visualization can enhance performance and reduce anxiety.
• Balancing academics, sports, and social life requires prioritization.
• Strength training is essential for injury prevention and performance.
• Having a mentor can guide athletes through the recruiting process.
• Trusting the training and staying relaxed can improve game performance.
• Athletes should focus on bodyweight exercises before heavy lifting.
• Understanding the difference between club and high school sports is important.
• It's essential to enjoy the game and not get overwhelmed by pressure.
• Coaches and mentors play a vital role in an athlete's development. You need a baseline of fitness to build off of.
• Focus on foundational movements before adding weight.
• Transitioning to college is a significant life change.
• Establishing a routine is crucial for success in college.
• Friendship and good habits are essential for personal growth.
• Leadership is built on trust and communication.
• Feedback is important for both giving and receiving.
• Failure should be viewed as a lesson, not a setback.
• Control what you can and learn from your experiences.
• You can't fool yourself about your efforts.

Sound Bites

• "If you're on time, you're early."
• "Stay ready so you don't have to get ready."
• "Visualization is huge for me."
• "If you're good, they're going to find you."
• "Everyone needs guidance."
• "You need to prioritize your body."
• "Start with body weight stuff."
• "The weight will come, absolutely."
• "Leadership comes back to trust."
• "Failure is very emotional."

Sponsor: The Vertigo Centre
https://thevertigocentre.com/