Rethinking the Coaching Role: Takeaways from Northwestern’s Leadership Initiative

Northwestern University's announcement of the Kellogg Coaches Leadership Academy represents a significant shift in the perception of the coach's role in college sports. Northwestern's academy provides training in areas such as leadership, communication, and crisis management to help coaches navigate the changing landscape of athletics.

For independent schools, the takeaway is clear. Coaches shape student experience, family trust, and school culture just like classroom teachers or administrators do, and they require professional development to make sure they have the tools necessary to do the job effectively.

The Northwestern model offers a blueprint. First, treat coaching positions as leadership positions. Coaches have incredible influence on team culture, student well-being, parental expectations, and alignment with school mission. Second, invest in the skills coaches actually need today—communication with parents, supporting multi-sport athletes, navigating club pressures, leading diverse groups, and building consistent expectations across programs. Third, recognize that athletics is a system, not a silo. Equipping coaches with leadership skills enhances admissions, retention, school culture, and community engagement.

Northwestern’s initiative is a reminder: if we want better programs, better culture, and better experiences for students, we must develop the people who lead them.