INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Last week, Chowan University's head flag football coach Sherry Lewis attended the NCAA and NFL Coaches Academy in Indianapolis. Held Feb. 18-20, the three-day professional development program brought in over 50 college and high school football coaches from across the country to participate in leadership training, networking and conversations about the changing landscape of the sport.

Hosted annually by the NCAA and NFL, the academy supplies current, full-time football coaches with educational opportunities designed to strengthen their ability to lead student-athletes both on and off the field.

"This year's NCAA and NFL Coaches Academy was truly special because it began with intention — focusing not just on the coach, but on the person behind the title," said Christal Peterson, associate director of leadership development at the NCAA. "Yes, your role matters, but it is your character and leadership that will sustain you long after the wins, losses and job titles change. This academy embraced that truth. By bringing in credible coaches and administrators who shared not only what contributed to their success, but the processes, habits and resilience that keep them thriving in an ever-changing landscape, we created a space rooted in growth, reflection and authenticity. This academy didn't just develop better coaches — it developed better leaders."

Throughout the program, learners engaged in a variety of sessions led by industry experts, covering topics such as leadership philosophy, job interview preparation and player development. Several speakers shared insights on coaching strategies and the importance of athlete and coach well-being.

Notable speakers included:
• Tony Dungy, Pro Football Hall of Fame coach.
• Joey McGuire, head coach at Texas Tech.
• Elizabeth White, founder of The Well Counseling and Consulting Group.
• Kayla Henderson, coordinator of player engagement for the Miami Dolphins.
• Torrian Wilson, founder of Crafting Linemen.
• Van Malone, head coach at Hampton.
• Chad Chatlos, managing director of athletics administration and coaching for TurnkeyZRG.
• Chris Ballard, general manager of the Indianapolis Colts.

In addition to structured programming, the academy provided learners with opportunities to connect with NCAA and NFL executives, as well as fellow coaches from across all divisions of college football. Many past participants have used their experience at the academy to advance their coaching careers at the collegiate and professional levels.

The NCAA and NFL Coaches Academy is an exclusive program that selects a limited number of participants each year through a competitive application process. Coaches leave the program with enhanced leadership skills, a deeper understanding of the coaching profession and a strong network of peers to support their career growth.  

For more information on the event, visit https://www.ncaa.org/sports/2013/11/21/ncaa-and-nfl-coaches-academy.aspx.