#318 – Mukund Mooksy’s Journey from Cricket to AFL High Performance Coaching

Mukund Mooksy’s Journey to AFL High-Performance Coaching

Early Life and Transition to Sports Science

Mukund Mooksy’s journey to becoming a high-performance coach in AFL is nothing short of inspiring. Born and raised in India, Mukund was deeply immersed in cricket from a young age. However, at 18, he decided to pivot his career towards sports science, studying at Deakin University in Australia, known for its top-tier sports programs. This bold move marked the beginning of his remarkable journey in AFL high-performance coaching. His dedication and expertise in AFL high-performance coaching have made him a respected figure in the industry.

Influential Mentors and Diverse Skill Set

Mukund has been fortunate to have mentors like Daniel Jones, who has significantly shaped his coaching philosophy throughout his career. Jones, with his extensive experience in the NBA, advised Mukund to diversify his skills. Consequently, Mukund learned to excel in various aspects of sports science, from strength and conditioning to rehabilitation and sprint training. This diverse skill set has been crucial in his development as a well-rounded high-performance coach.

Structured Learning and Professional Growth

Mukund’s commitment to structured learning has played a pivotal role in his success. By adhering to comprehensive checklists and seeking feedback from high-performance managers, he systematically achieved his professional goals. His expertise in strength and conditioning programming, particularly for 12-week periods, has been a testament to his meticulous approach and dedication to continuous improvement.

Practical Experience and Communication Skills

A significant milestone in Mukund’s career was his presentation to a soccer club. Although initially daunting, this experience honed his ability to convey complex sports science concepts in an accessible manner. Importantly, it also underscored the value of building strong relationships with coaches and other stakeholders, which is essential for success in high-performance coaching.

Networking and Career Advancement Tips

For aspiring high-performance coaches, Mukund emphasizes the importance of early outreach to AFL clubs. Given that most roles become available post-season, around October-November, starting the networking process in August-September is critical. Whether through email, LinkedIn, or direct messages, expressing interest and introducing oneself to various clubs can significantly enhance career opportunities.

Conclusion

Mukund Mooksy’s journey from cricket to AFL high-performance coaching is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and strategic approach to career development. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring coaches, highlighting the importance of diversified skills, structured learning, effective communication, and proactive networking.

Highlights from the episode:

• Mukund’s background journey into sports science
• Key influencers and mentors who have shaped Mukund’s career and approach
• Using the career scorecard point system
• Tips when doing a presentation to club managers or head coaches
• Networking and outreach tips