This week I’m joined by John Baines, head men’s basketball coach at Elmhurst University, one of the premier Division III basketball programs in the country.

During his time leading the Bluejays, Coach Baines has built a nationally respected program in the CCIW, leading Elmhurst to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, conference championships, and a run to the 2022 NCAA Division III National Championship game after a historic Final Four season.

But what stands out most about Coach Baines is not just the winning.

It’s the way he builds people.

In this conversation we discuss:

• Developing toughness and resilience in players
• Building leadership inside a team
• Practice design and daily standards
• Managing emotional momentum during games
• Teaching accountability and responsibility
• Why telling players the truth matters

This episode is packed with insight for coaches, athletic directors, and leaders who care about building strong cultures and developing young people through sport.

To learn more about Coach Baines and his career at Elmhurst, visit:
https://elmhurstbluejays.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/john-baines/1092

For blogs, books, recruiting resources, and speaking opportunities visit:
coachmattrogers.com

And make sure to come back Monday for Part II of this conversation, where Coach Baines and I tackle the world of college basketball recruiting.

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Significant Recruiting: The Playbook for Prospective College Athletes
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