Building Champions: Lessons from Coach Loren De Jong
In the latest edition of Beyond Bound, Mark Gunderson introduces a powerful session led by Loren De Jong, the esteemed boys' basketball coach at MOC-Floyd Valley High School in Orange City, Iowa. With several state championships under his belt, Coach De Jong shares invaluable insights on transforming athletes both on and off the court.
The Evolution of a Coach
Coach De Jong's journey began with a strong desire to help kids, but he quickly realized that coaching was as much about his personal growth as it was about the players. A pivotal moment came in 1997 when he met Larry Korver, a legendary football coach. Korver's advice—that coaching is a calling and should be focused on the kids, not oneself—struck a chord with De Jong. This advice, combined with a life-changing insight from Earl Lodge about using programs to build character, shaped De Jong’s coaching philosophy.
Building Champions
Coach De Jong emphasizes the importance of focusing on developing players into well-rounded individuals. In 2004, his team crafted a mission statement centered around transforming “Boys to Men” through unity, humility, selflessness, mental toughness, and playing for a higher cause. This mission statement has become the cornerstone of his approach, aiming to instill these values both on and off the court.
The two key components of his coaching philosophy are:
- Focus: Coach De Jong prioritizes daily reminders and communication about the team's values, even at the expense of individual or team skill development time.
- Outstanding Communication: He stresses the importance of relentless, positive communication. Building relationships and trust with players is crucial for pushing them to reach their full potential.
DCU Philosophy: Discover, Celebrate, Unleash
A standout concept in De Jong's approach is the DCU model—Discover, Celebrate, Unleash. This philosophy involves:
- Discover: Identifying and appreciating each player's unique gifts and contributions.
- Celebrate: Recognizing and valuing these gifts individually.
- Unleash: Encouraging players to showcase their talents for the benefit of the team and themselves.
De Jong also emphasizes the importance of “Love, Know, Speak, Do,” which focuses on creating a supportive environment where players are encouraged to give rather than judge. He believes that love, positive communication, and living out these values are essential for personal and team growth.
Managing Comparisons and Performance
One of the biggest challenges De Jong addresses is helping players separate their self-worth from their performance. He advises focusing on personal growth and contributions rather than comparing oneself to others. By fostering an environment where players are celebrated for their individual strengths rather than their achievements alone, De Jong helps them build a healthier perspective on success and failure.
Balancing Coaching and Personal Life
De Jong acknowledges the demanding nature of coaching and its impact on personal life. He has learned the importance of setting boundaries, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and balancing his professional and personal commitments. This balance is crucial for sustaining his energy and effectiveness as a coach.
Final Thoughts
Coach Loren De Jong’s philosophy is a testament to the profound impact that coaching can have on young athletes. By focusing on character development, relentless communication, and the DCU model, he creates a culture where players grow into champions in all aspects of life. His approach highlights the importance of nurturing both athletic skills and personal values, making a lasting difference in the lives of his players.