Brian Houk, CPASS Athletic Coaching Education graduate, credits connections made as a member of the WVU Men’s Lacrosse team, along with support from CPASS mentors, for helping him land the head coaching slot with the University High School boys’ Lacrosse team.
“Connections and friendships are important because you never know when an opportunity will arise. I got this job because of connections I made in the UHS program through the WVU Men’s Lacrosse team. Make positive relationships and never burn any bridges,” Houk said.
Houk has played lacrosse his entire life; he wants to help grow the sport in the state of West Virginia.
“Lacrosse is still growing in West Virginia and I want to elevate the competition, popularity and quality of the lacrosse experience in this state,” Houk explained.
Houk originally applied for the assistant coaching position at UHS, however, once the head coaching position opened up, Houk was offered the head coaching position at the Morgantown, W.Va.-based high school.
“Being the head lacrosse coach at University High School is an incredible opportunity. The program has a history of success, having won the past three consecutive WVSLA D1 state titles. Since playing high school lacrosse, I have always wanted to be a head coach. To be the head coach of a team of this caliber means the world to me,” he added.
Houk is thankful for his time at WVU and as an Athletic Coaching Education major. “WVU did a great job in preparing for all aspects of this job. In my opinion, the three most important qualities a coach can have are being a great communicator, great planner and great administrator. ManyACE classes touch on all of these topics,” he explained.
Houk acknowledges the mentors and professors who helped him along the way. “There are many great people from WVU who have helped me get this job and become a good coach. Specifically, Dr. Wayda, Dr. Kuklick, Dr. Dieffenbach, Dr. King, and many more, who have helped and taught me along the way,” he said.
Houk offers advice for students who wish to be head coaches. He explains the importance of focusing on classroom-based learning. “Doing your best in class helps you refine and perfect your craft as a coach. Even the best coaches know that they do not know everything and must constantly learn, adapt and improve to grow as a coach,” he said.