Elevating Athletes: Gary McCoy’s High-Performance Coaching Insights
In the realm of high-performance coaching, few names stand out like that of Gary McCoy. With a solid foundation in Sport Science Coaching Techniques, McCoy has honed his expertise, particularly in working with baseball pitchers. His approach to coaching is marked by a unique perspective and an unwavering commitment to data-driven decision-making.
Gary McCoy is a High-Performance coach with a sports science background and has consulted with elite sporting teams and businesses all over the world. Currently, Gary hosts the Human Kinesome Project podcast, is also the Vice president of performance at Kinetyx Sciences, and is the Australian National Baseball strength & conditioning coach. With his extensive knowledge in Sport Science Coaching Techniques, McCoy has made a significant impact in the field of high-performance coaching.
Highlights from the episode:
- His habits when taking a new athlete
- Influencers who shaped his career
- How to get an athlete to be noticed by selectors in an Aussie team
- Fave quote or life motto
- Gary’s take on weekly or season athlete reviews
- His pet peeves at work
The Childlike Lens: McCoy’s Approach to New Athletes
When taking on a new athlete, McCoy begins by adopting what he calls a “childlike eyes” approach. This means looking at the athlete with a fresh perspective, free from preconceived notions or biases. It’s a crucial step to ensure that each athlete receives a customized and tailored training regimen that aligns with their unique strengths and areas of improvement.
Mentors and Influencers: Shaping McCoy’s Journey
McCoy attributes a significant portion of his success to the mentors and influencers who have guided him along the way. Dr. Marcus Elliott, renowned for his musculoskeletal assessments, played a pivotal role in McCoy’s journey. Additionally, Alex McKechnie’s expertise in injury reduction and performance optimization has left an indelible mark on McCoy’s coaching philosophy.
The Science Behind Hitting: McCoy’s Insights for Baseball Athletes
For McCoy, achieving greatness in hitting at the major league level boils down to two key factors: ball exit velocity and launch angle. These metrics provide a comprehensive view of an athlete’s performance, encompassing everything from visual cognition to kinematic energy. By tying these indicators to an athlete’s physical systems, McCoy ensures a holistic approach to hitting proficiency.
Data-Driven Reviews: Separating Opinion from Fact
McCoy places a strong emphasis on using data to drive athlete reviews. He believes that opinions, especially those not backed by concrete evidence, have no place in the realm of high-performance coaching. By relying on objective data, McCoy ensures that assessments are accurate and actionable, leading to tangible improvements in athlete performance.
Navigating Challenges: McCoy’s Pet Peeves in Coaching
One aspect that irks McCoy is encountering coaching staff who rely on opinions rather than facts. He acknowledges that understanding the root of such opinions, often driven by fear or insecurity, is crucial. McCoy’s years of experience have taught him the importance of empathy and open communication in navigating these challenges.
From Elite Arenas to Personal Training: McCoy’s Perspective on Career Trajectory
Having worked in the high-stakes environments of the NFL, NBA, and Major League Baseball, McCoy understands the pressures and uncertainties that come with elite coaching. He recognizes that the fear of a downward career trajectory can influence opinions and decisions. McCoy’s advice to aspiring coaches is to remain grounded, always valuing data and facts above all else.
Conclusion: Unveiling the Secrets of High-Performance Coaching
Gary McCoy’s journey in the world of high-performance coaching is a testament to the power of a science-backed approach and a commitment to constant learning. His insights provide a valuable blueprint for coaches and athletes alike, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making and a fresh perspective when approaching new challenges in sports.
In summary, McCoy’s sport science background and childlike approach to coaching have elevated him to the pinnacle of the field, leaving a lasting impact on the athletes he guides toward success. With McCoy’s guidance, athletes can unlock their full potential and achieve greatness on the field.
People mentioned:
- Ben Peterson
- Marcus Elliot
- John Meyer
- Darren Burgess
- Andrew Walsh
- David Beckham
- Shaun Holthouse
- Matthew Collins
- Mat Howley
Connect with Gary: https://www.instagram.com/highperformancebaseball/
Website: https://www.kinetyx.tech/
Jack McLean is the founder of Prepare Like a Pro. He loves coaching people so that they can reach their personal/professional goals and become the best that they can possibly be. He is currently the Strength & Rehab Coach of Melbourne Football Club and has worked as Strength & Conditioning Coach at Hawthorn Football Club. Jack is a Level 3 Australian Strength & Conditioning Association and Professional Coach and a Level 1 Australian Weightlifting Federation Coach.
