#Personal development business coach Houston

[selfimprovementtips]

How the Kindergarteners Won | Tips on Self Improvement

In the previous post I related an experiment that was done to highlight aspects that create a good culture in which teams can be productive. As a self-improvement business coach in the Woodlands one of the areas of focus in corporations and small businesses that I collaborate with has been regarding culture and how culture impacts not only a team’s efficiency but effectiveness.

The kindergarteners in the experiment won against teams of business students. They also carried the experiment to other groups. The kindergarteners defeated lawyers and CEOs. So, what was going on that created this unexpected result?

Let’s start with what we focus on, which is individual skills. If you think about it, individual skills are easy to focus on because they are the most visible. But, when it comes to team performance, it is not individual skills that matter. What matters is the interaction.

Let’s take a look at the business students. As a personal business coach in Houston, I have worked with talented young people. The business students had more talent individually than the kindergartners. But they were not engaged in collaboration, so much as what psychologists call, status management. They were figuring where they fit into the larger picture. Who is in charge? Is it okay to criticize someone’s idea? What are the rules here? Their interactions appear smooth, but their underlying behavior is riddled with inefficiency, hesitation, and subtle competition. As a result of managing status their first efforts collapse and they run out of time.

Get More Info : Self Improvement business coaching

Website : https://www.selfimprovement-tips.com/

Contact Us : Personal business coaching houston

[thirdoasttraining]

Meet Johnny Shelby, the driving force behind Third Coast Training! I appreciate the opportunity to share my story with you. I launched my coaching career in 2004 when my friend and I decided to become full-time endurance and multisport coaches in Houston, TX. As the head of the performance lab, I identified a crucial gap in fitness training. I observed that many individuals followed exercise programs that didn't align with their goals, leading to frustration, plateaus, or program abandonment. This realization fueled my passion to become a leading triathlon coach, specializing in comprehensive fitness testing for athletes of all abilities. I've discovered that endurance athletes possess remarkable fat-burning capabilities, primarily due to their well-developed aerobic base. My expertise lies in identifying and enhancing this foundation – because the stronger the base, the faster an athlete can perform. In 2007, I expanded my vision by relocating to Northwest Arkansas and establishing Third Coast Training. I operated a performance lab in Fayetteville while providing specialized fitness testing at the Walmart Corporate Fitness Center in Bentonville. For those searching for a "triathlon coach near me" in these areas, we offered comprehensive training solutions. A significant milestone occurred in 2013 when Third Coast Training in Pasadena, TX, earned recognition from USA Triathlon as the nation's eighth USA Triathlon Certified Performance Center. This prestigious designation required meeting stringent criteria established by USA Triathlon, confirming our commitment to excellence in multisport training. Today, as an experienced triathlon coach, I continue to find immense satisfaction in helping clients achieve their diverse goals – whether they're focusing on fat loss, speed improvement, or rediscovering their love for fitness. My client base spans from enthusiastic twenty-somethings to dedicated septuagenarians. We particularly welcome newcomers while also supporting competitive age-group athletes. Triathlon encompasses multiple disciplines, and each athlete brings unique strengths and areas for improvement. I recognize that every individual is different, and I'm grateful for my clients' trust in helping them maximize their potential. How was my start as a Fulltime coach? My first year as a full-time coach presented typical business challenges. Through dedicated effort, we reached our break-even point after 12 months. Interestingly, many early clients kept their training advantage private, seeking to maintain their competitive edge. As these athletes began showing remarkable improvements, word naturally spread about our effective coaching methods. Their successes became powerful testimonials for our training approach. More on my business. As a dedicated triathlon coach, I take pride in Third Coast Training's recognition in 2013 as the nation's eighth USA Triathlon Certified Performance Center by USA Triathlon. Our Greater Houston location stands unique with this prestigious designation. I actively lead our daily operations alongside my team of certified coaches. Our state-of-the-art facility offers comprehensive services designed for optimal athletic performance. Athletes can access our advanced human performance lab, professional massage therapy services, and a heated indoor endless pool for personalized swim instruction. We provide detailed video analysis and performance testing to enhance training effectiveness. Both members and non-members can benefit from our USA Triathlon Certified Coaches' expertise, while also accessing specialized consultations in physical therapy, and sports psychology. What was I like as a kid? My childhood as a military family member shaped my adaptability and determination. My father, a Marine Force Recon veteran, instilled in me a powerful drive for excellence. His influence, particularly through his "6 P's" philosophy, helped me develop a highly motivated and goal-oriented mindset that proved valuable throughout my life. My active lifestyle included diverse activities - from scouting to various sports including cross country, track and field, baseball, and wrestling. I'm thankful for my parents' active involvement in fostering both my athletic and social development. My passion for running flourished particularly during our time in California and Oregon, where the challenging terrain provided excellent training grounds. But wait there's more.  June 18th, 2024, I suffered a terrible car crash that nearly took my life. I’ve been sharing my journey in parts, detailing how I got back to running. Running is my passion, don’t stop me. Follow my journey https://thirdcoasttraining.com/2024/06/18/titaniumjohnny-the-crash-and-journey-back-to-running/ Read the full article

[hamidaranu]

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is a global company that is changing the way people live and work. We help companies connect, store, analyze and integrate their data and applications wherever they live, from the edge to the cloud, so they can turn insights and results at the speed needed to succeed in today's complex world. Our culture is built on finding new and better ways to accelerate the future. We know that people from different backgrounds are valued and thrive here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs. Together, we do bold and positive things. If you are looking to develop and improve your career, our culture will welcome you.

Moderators are welcome

Hewlett Packard Corporation is changing the way people live and work. What makes us different? Our employees. People are what make HPE a great place to work.

Work that fits your life

At hpe, we believe in empowering team members to shape their experience. That's why we have a hybrid and flexible work style, which makes integration, commitment to our culture and continuous impact for the team.

Understanding our culture

Each of us brings unique experiences from many cultural backgrounds. Our unifying values ​​align our direction and the decisions we make every day.

HPC/AI Marketing Specialist, Federal

Available in Area 2 Market Category Position Type Full Time Job ID1177542

Accounting, accountability, active learning, active listening, persuasion, empathy, relationship building, buyer persona, coaching, complex marketing, creativity, critical thinking, teamwork work beyond… Senior Network Software Development Engineer

Extensive experience with various tools and languages ​​to design software systems. Leads multiple project teams consisting of other software systems engineers and internal and external development partners responsible for... Technical Consultant

Location Houston, Texas, 77070 Category Administration. Financial and Legal Status ID1178260 Full-time

Responsible for providing technical support and/or leadership in the creation and delivery of technology solutions designed to meet client business needs and, therefore, understand client needs.

[halimony]

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Hpe is a global company that is changing the way people live and work. We help companies connect, store, analyze and integrate their data and applications wherever they live, from the edge to the cloud, so they can turn insights and results at the speed needed to succeed in today's complex world. Our culture is built on finding new and better ways to accelerate the future. We know that people from different backgrounds are valued and thrive here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs. Together, we do bold and positive things. If you are looking to develop and improve your career, our culture will welcome you.

Moderators are welcome

Hewlett Packard Corporation is changing the way people live and work. What makes us different? Our employees. People are what make HPE a great place to work.

Work that fits your life

At HPE, we believe in empowering team members to shape their experience. That's why we have a hybrid and flexible work style, which makes integration, commitment to our culture and continuous impact for the team.

Understanding our culture

Each of us brings unique experiences from many cultural backgrounds. Our unifying values ​​align our direction and the decisions we make every day.

HPC/AI Marketing Specialist, Federal

Available in Area 2 Market Category Position Type Full Time Job ID1177542

Accounting, accountability, active learning, active listening, persuasion, empathy, relationship building, buyer persona, coaching, complex marketing, creativity, critical thinking, teamwork work beyond… Senior Network Software Development Engineer

Extensive experience with various tools and languages ​​to design software systems. Leads multiple project teams consisting of other software systems engineers and internal and external development partners responsible for... Technical Consultant

Location Houston, Texas, 77070 Category Administration. Financial and Legal Status ID1178260 Full-time

Responsible for providing technical support and/or leadership in the creation and delivery of technology solutions designed to meet client business needs and, therefore, understand client needs.

[gretchensalbrecht]

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is a global company that is changing the way people live and work. We help companies connect, store, analyze and integrate their data and applications wherever they live, from the edge to the cloud, so they can turn insights and results at the speed needed to succeed in today's complex world. Our culture is built on finding new and better ways to accelerate the future. We know that people from different backgrounds are valued and thrive here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs. Together, we do bold and positive things. If you are looking to develop and improve your career, our culture will welcome you.

Moderators are welcome

Hewlett Packard Corporation is changing the way people live and work. What makes us different? Our employees. People are what make HPE a great place to work.

Work that fits your life

At hpe, we believe in empowering team members to shape their experience. That's why we have a hybrid and flexible work style, which makes integration, commitment to our culture and continuous impact for the team.

Understanding our culture

Each of us brings unique experiences from many cultural backgrounds. Our unifying values ​​align our direction and the decisions we make every day.

HPC/AI Marketing Specialist, Federal

Available in Area 2 Market Category Position Type Full Time Job ID1177542

Accounting, accountability, active learning, active listening, persuasion, empathy, relationship building, buyer persona, coaching, complex marketing, creativity, critical thinking, teamwork work beyond… Senior Network Software Development Engineer

Extensive experience with various tools and languages ​​to design software systems. Leads multiple project teams consisting of other software systems engineers and internal and external development partners responsible for... Technical Consultant

Location Houston, Texas, 77070 Category Administration. Financial and Legal Status ID1178260 Full-time

Responsible for providing technical support and/or leadership in the creation and delivery of technology solutions designed to meet client business needs and, therefore, understand client needs.

[ritik2]

Career Coaching Boston, DC, California, North Carolina, Houston

In today’s competitive and ever-changing job market, advancing your career requires more than just hard work and dedication. It demands strategic thinking, a clear understanding of your professional goals, and the ability to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace. This is where tailored coaching services can make a significant difference. Whether you're in Boston, Washington DC, California, North Carolina, or Houston, personalized career coaching can provide the guidance you need to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve your professional aspirations.

The Value of Tailored Coaching

Tailored coaching services are designed to meet the specific needs of everyone. Unlike generic career advice, personalized coaching considers your unique strengths, weaknesses, career goals, and the specific challenges you face in your professional journey. This customized approach ensures that the guidance you receive is relevant, actionable, and aligned with your long-term objectives.

Boston: Navigating a Competitive Professional Landscape

Boston, a city renowned for its education, healthcare, and technology sectors, offers vast opportunities but also intense competition. Professionals in Boston must continually enhance their skills and adapt to stay ahead in this demanding environment. Tailored coaching services in Boston are designed to help you navigate this competitive landscape with confidence. By working with a coach who understands the unique dynamics of Boston’s job market, you can develop a clear plan to advance your career and achieve your professional goals.

Washington DC: Leadership and Influence in the Nation’s Capital

Washington DC is not just the political heart of the United States; it’s also a major hub for public policy, international relations, and non-profit work. Professionals in DC often find themselves at the intersection of business and government, where leadership, influence, and ethical decision-making are paramount. Career Coaching – California professionals in Washington DC can benefit immensely from coaching that is tailored to the unique demands of the region, helping them to lead more effectively and achieve their career ambitions in this influential city.

California: Innovation and Career Growth in a Dynamic Environment

California, known for its innovation in technology, entertainment, and entrepreneurship, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for professionals. Whether you're in Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, or San Diego, the key to career success in California is adaptability, creativity, and a willingness to embrace change. With a coach who understands the dynamic nature of California’s professional environment, you can enhance your ability to innovate, adapt, and thrive in one of the most competitive regions in the world.

North Carolina: Building Resilience and Sustainable Careers

North Carolina, home to the Research Triangle and a growing hub for technology, research, and higher education, offers a unique blend of opportunities for professionals. In this region, career success often hinges on the ability to build resilience, embrace continuous learning, and focus on sustainable growth. By focusing on resilience, continuous learning, and sustainable growth, coaching services in North Carolina can help you build a fulfilling and successful career in this vibrant region.

Houston: Strategic Career Management in the Energy Capital

Houston, known globally as the energy capital, is a city where strategic career management is crucial. Professionals in Houston often work in industries that are highly dynamic and subject to fluctuations in global markets. Tailored coaching services in Houston provide the strategic guidance needed to navigate these challenges effectively. By working with a coach who understands the unique dynamics of Houston’s industries, you can develop the strategic insight and leadership capabilities needed to succeed in this global hub.

Personalized Guidance for Professional Success

One of the most significant advantages of tailored coaching services is the personalized guidance they offer. Each coaching program is designed to address your specific needs, whether you’re looking to advance in your current role, make a career change, or start your own business. By offering personalized support and guidance, tailored coaching services ensure that you have the tools and strategies needed to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve your professional goals.

Conclusion

Whether you're in Boston, Washington DC, California, North Carolina, or Houston, tailored coaching services can be a powerful tool in advancing your career. By focusing on your unique challenges and goals, these services provide personalized guidance that can help you navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, seize new opportunities, and achieve lasting success.

Investing in tailored coaching is not just about addressing immediate career concerns—it’s about positioning yourself for long-term success. With the right coach, you can elevate your career, enhance your skills, and achieve your professional aspirations, no matter where you are in your career journey.

[4fvictory]

Unlock your full potential with 4F Victory's business coaching in Houston. Our experienced coaches work closely with you to develop a personalized coaching plan that addresses your unique challenges and goals. We provide strategic insights, actionable advice, and the support you need to succeed in the Houston business environment. Whether you're looking to grow your business, improve leadership skills, or enhance operational efficiency, our coaching services are designed to help you achieve lasting success.

[terryhildebrandtus]

Leadership Mastery: Elevate Your Potential with TerryHildebrandt.com

Unlock the full spectrum of your leadership capabilities with TerryHildebrandt.com, your premier destination for leadership coaching in Houston. Discover a transformative journey where you can hone your leadership skills, amplify your impact, and achieve unprecedented success in both your professional and personal spheres.

The TerryHildebrandt Commitment to Leadership Excellence

Explore why TerryHildebrandt is your trusted partner in unlocking leadership mastery:

Experienced Leadership Coaching

At TerryHildebrandt.com, benefit from the wisdom of seasoned professionals dedicated to the art of leadership coaching. Our team brings a wealth of experience to guide you on a personalized journey towards unlocking your leadership potential.

Tailored Coaching Programs

Excellence meets individuality. TerryHildebrandt offers tailored coaching programs designed to meet your unique leadership needs. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, our programs are crafted to align with your aspirations and goals.

Proven Leadership Strategies

Your leadership journey deserves the best. TerryHildebrandt imparts proven leadership strategies that have propelled individuals to success. Learn the art of effective communication, strategic decision-making, and inspirational leadership that fosters growth.

Beyond Coaching: Fostering Lasting Leadership Impact

TerryHildebrandt is not just about coaching; it's about fostering lasting leadership impact:

Educational Resources for Leaders

Empower leaders with knowledge. TerryHildebrandt provides educational resources, offering insights into the latest leadership trends, management methodologies, and thought leadership that propels individuals towards excellence.

Community Support for Leadership Enthusiasts

Join a community that values leadership excellence. TerryHildebrandt fosters community support, connecting leadership enthusiasts and providing a platform for shared experiences, discussions, and a collective commitment to advancing leadership skills.

Innovative Leadership Solutions

Explore innovation. TerryHildebrandt introduces modern solutions that go beyond traditional coaching, ensuring leaders are equipped with the latest tools and techniques for navigating the complexities of today's dynamic business landscape.

Elevate Your Leadership Journey with TerryHildebrandt Your journey into the realm of leadership mastery begins at TerryHildebrandt. Stay tuned for more insights into leadership trends, coaching tips, and exciting developments in the world of unlocking your full leadership potential. Your path to becoming an impactful leader awaits with TerryHildebrandt.

[greaterconceptsbydesign]

Your Trusted Business Coach in Houston, Texas: Greater Concept by Design

In the dynamic world of business, navigating challenges and achieving success can be a complex journey. Entrepreneurs and business leaders often find themselves seeking guidance to overcome obstacles and unlock their full potential. That's where Greater Concept by Design steps in as your trusted partner and business coach in Houston, Texas.

Embracing a Vision: Greater Concept by Design At the heart of Greater Concept by Design is a commitment to transforming businesses by fostering a strategic mindset, innovation, and resilience. Founded on the principles of unlocking greater potential, this Houston-based company thrives on helping entrepreneurs and business professionals redefine their success.

Personalized Business Coaching in Houston, Texas The business landscape in Houston is diverse and competitive, requiring a tailored approach to address unique challenges. Greater Concept by Design stands out by offering personalized business coaching services that cater to the specific needs of each client. Their experienced coaches understand the nuances of the local market and provide insights that are directly applicable to businesses in Houston, Texas.

Navigating Challenges with Expert Business Coaches Success in business often involves overcoming challenges and learning from setbacks. The expert business coaches at Greater Concept by Design serve as mentors, guiding clients through obstacles and helping them build resilience. By focusing on proven strategies and innovative solutions, these coaches empower clients to turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

Strategic Planning for Sustainable Growth One of the key aspects that set Greater Concept by Design apart is its emphasis on strategic planning. Business leaders in Houston benefit from comprehensive coaching sessions that delve into the development of effective business strategies. The goal is not just short-term success but sustainable growth that stands the test of time.

Testimonials Speak Louder than Words The success stories of clients coached by Greater Concept by Design are a testament to the effectiveness of their approach. From start-ups looking to establish a solid foundation to established businesses aiming for strategic expansion, the positive testimonials highlight the tangible results achieved under the guidance of these seasoned business coaches.

Community Engagement and Networking Greater Concept by Design goes beyond traditional business coaching by actively engaging with the local community. Through networking events, workshops, and seminars, they create opportunities for businesses to connect, collaborate, and learn from each other. This commitment to community building further strengthens the impact of their business coach in services in Houston, Texas.

Conclusion: Greater Success Awaits In the bustling business environment of Houston, Texas, having a reliable partner like Greater Concept by Design can make all the difference. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding business professional, the personalized coaching, strategic insights, and community support offered by this company can propel you towards greater success.

Unlock your full potential and elevate your business to new heights with Greater Concept by Design – Your Trusted Business Coach in Houston, Texas.

Contact information- Phone:(346) 443-1556 – Primary(815) 342-5850 – Book an After-Hours Appointment Address: 27825 Ellie Oak Lane, Spring, TX 77386 Service Area: Texas Visit website- https://www.greaterconceptsbydesign.com/

[selfimprovementtips]

My Inspiration To Succeed

Finding inspiration to succeed can come from various sources and can be deeply personal. Here are some strategies to help you cultivate and maintain your inspiration:

Set Clear Goals: Define what success means to you. Having clear, achievable goals can provide you with direction and motivation.

Visualize Success: Imagine yourself achieving your goals. Visualizing success can help reinforce your motivation and keep you focused on your objectives.

Surround Yourself with Positivity: Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you. Positive energy and encouragement can fuel your drive to succeed.

Seek Role Models: Look up to individuals who have achieved success in your field or area of interest. Learning from their experiences and accomplishments can inspire you to pursue your own goals.

Stay Persistent: Understand that success often requires perseverance and resilience. Stay committed to your goals, even in the face of challenges or setbacks.

Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress along the way. Celebrating small victories can boost your morale and keep you motivated.

Stay Curious and Learn Continuously: Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and growth. Stay curious, explore new ideas, and seek out opportunities for self-improvement.

Find Purpose: Connect your goals to a larger purpose or vision. Understanding why you want to succeed can add meaning to your efforts and inspire you to keep pushing forward. 

More info : Personal Development Training houston

[thirdoasttraining]

Meet Johnny Shelby, the driving force behind Third Coast Training! I appreciate the opportunity to share my story with you. I launched my coaching career in 2004 when my friend and I decided to become full-time endurance and multisport coaches in Houston, TX. As the head of the performance lab, I identified a crucial gap in fitness training. I observed that many individuals followed exercise programs that didn't align with their goals, leading to frustration, plateaus, or program abandonment. This realization fueled my passion to become a leading triathlon coach, specializing in comprehensive fitness testing for athletes of all abilities. I've discovered that endurance athletes possess remarkable fat-burning capabilities, primarily due to their well-developed aerobic base. My expertise lies in identifying and enhancing this foundation – because the stronger the base, the faster an athlete can perform. In 2007, I expanded my vision by relocating to Northwest Arkansas and establishing Third Coast Training. I operated a performance lab in Fayetteville while providing specialized fitness testing at the Walmart Corporate Fitness Center in Bentonville. For those searching for a "triathlon coach near me" in these areas, we offered comprehensive training solutions. A significant milestone occurred in 2013 when Third Coast Training in Pasadena, TX, earned recognition from USA Triathlon as the nation's eighth USA Triathlon Certified Performance Center. This prestigious designation required meeting stringent criteria established by USA Triathlon, confirming our commitment to excellence in multisport training. Today, as an experienced triathlon coach, I continue to find immense satisfaction in helping clients achieve their diverse goals – whether they're focusing on fat loss, speed improvement, or rediscovering their love for fitness. My client base spans from enthusiastic twenty-somethings to dedicated septuagenarians. We particularly welcome newcomers while also supporting competitive age-group athletes. Triathlon encompasses multiple disciplines, and each athlete brings unique strengths and areas for improvement. I recognize that every individual is different, and I'm grateful for my clients' trust in helping them maximize their potential. How was my start as a Fulltime coach? My first year as a full-time coach presented typical business challenges. Through dedicated effort, we reached our break-even point after 12 months. Interestingly, many early clients kept their training advantage private, seeking to maintain their competitive edge. As these athletes began showing remarkable improvements, word naturally spread about our effective coaching methods. Their successes became powerful testimonials for our training approach. More on my business. As a dedicated triathlon coach, I take pride in Third Coast Training's recognition in 2013 as the nation's eighth USA Triathlon Certified Performance Center by USA Triathlon. Our Greater Houston location stands unique with this prestigious designation. I actively lead our daily operations alongside my team of certified coaches. Our state-of-the-art facility offers comprehensive services designed for optimal athletic performance. Athletes can access our advanced human performance lab, professional massage therapy services, and a heated indoor endless pool for personalized swim instruction. We provide detailed video analysis and performance testing to enhance training effectiveness. Both members and non-members can benefit from our USA Triathlon Certified Coaches' expertise, while also accessing specialized consultations in physical therapy, and sports psychology. What was I like as a kid? My childhood as a military family member shaped my adaptability and determination. My father, a Marine Force Recon veteran, instilled in me a powerful drive for excellence. His influence, particularly through his "6 P's" philosophy, helped me develop a highly motivated and goal-oriented mindset that proved valuable throughout my life. My active lifestyle included diverse activities - from scouting to various sports including cross country, track and field, baseball, and wrestling. I'm thankful for my parents' active involvement in fostering both my athletic and social development. My passion for running flourished particularly during our time in California and Oregon, where the challenging terrain provided excellent training grounds. But wait there's more.  June 18th, 2024, I suffered a terrible car crash that nearly took my life. I’ve been sharing my journey in parts, detailing how I got back to running. Running is my passion, don’t stop me. Follow my journey https://thirdcoasttraining.com/2024/06/18/titaniumjohnny-the-crash-and-journey-back-to-running/ Read the full article

[ptkenterprises]

Looking for the Best international motivational speakers in California?

The important speech is usually delivered either at the beginning of the event or the event's conclusion. The duration of these speeches is usually between 45 minutes and two hours in length. To get the best international motivational speaker in California, reach out to Praises to the king enterprises.

in

[hinesmoond]

The fastest and easiest way to contact is by using this easy contact form. Use it to send your questions, remarks or comments about the website.

[aion-rsa]

Friday Night Lights: A Non-American’s Guide to American Football

https://ift.tt/3zYMt15

Friday Night Lights is now back on Netflix and you have to watch it. 

Just to be clear, that isn’t a request – it’s an order. The NBC football drama is simply one of the most affecting, thrilling American TV shows of all time. Though premiering in 2006, the show can mark its lineage all the way back to a true story from the late ‘80s. In 1990, sports journalist H.G. “Buzz” Bissinger published the non-fiction book Friday Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream. The book follows the story of the 1988 Permian Panthers high school football team in Odessa, Texas as they make a run for a Texas state championship.

The book was adapted into a Peter Berg film of the same name in 2004, starring Billy Bob Thornton. The story of the Permian Panthers was dramatically rich enough to conquer two mediums already, but when a third was announced in the form of a TV series for NBC it seemed like overkill. Did the world really need more high school football drama after a successful book and movie? It turns out that the world really did.

Friday Night Lights, the TV show, further fictionalized Bissinger’s story. Odessa, Texas becomes the fictional Dillon, Texas (though the Permian Panthers logo remains a big yellow “P”). Kyle Chandler steps into the role of a new coach, the magnanimous Eric Taylor. Shot in a cinema verite-style where blocking is optional, Friday Night Lights makes the viewer feel like they are just another Dillon citizen, desperately dreaming for a state championship. Above all else, this empathetic show never speaks down to its small town characters. 

As previously stated, Friday Night Lights is a must-watch. But if you’re one of our many non-American readers (Hello, everyone! I see you out there, writing “s” in words that need “z”), the football angle may seem like a real roadblock. So let’s tear down that roadblock. American football is the most popular sport in the United States but also perhaps its most impenetrable. The rulebook is thick and its connection to American culture deep. What follows is an attempt to explain American football for non-American viewers who are hesitant to tackle the show. Hopefully this will also prove useful to existing Friday Night Lights fans who have some questions about the game. 

To simplify matters, we’ve broken our football school down into three parts: The Different Levels of American Football, which explains the sport’s place in American culture and why high school football is a big deal; The Rules of American Football, which is as succinct a distillation of how the game is played as possible; and The Strategy of American Football, which examines whether Eric Taylor is even a good coach anyway. 

The Different Levels of American Football

Football is a pervasive force in American society. The highest level of play in the country (and the world) is the National Football League in which 32 teams of well-paid professionals compete against one another. The NFL is the richest sports league in the world by revenue and its championship, the Super Bowl, is usually watched by roughly 100 million people per year. Football’s influence doesn’t begin and end with the NFL though. The NFL doesn’t have a minor league or development system, so those interested in watching younger athletes are able to do so by following the sport on the collegiate or high school level.

College football is a huge deal. Some major universities’ football stadiums can house upwards of 100,000 fans. Four-year universities and colleges across the country field their own football teams that compete against one another in 12-game seasons (before a postseason consisting of “Bowl Games” but that’s too complicated to get into right now). Football at the collegiate level contains hundreds of teams split up into different leagues based on size and different conferences based on geography (for the most part). There isn’t any promotion and relegation like in European football leagues but if an institution grows big enough they can secure an invite to a higher level.

Though the decision-makers of the sport like to pretend it’s an amateur exercise and the players are not paid, college football is really a multi-billion dollar business. In fact, college football’s governing body, the NCAA, was just spooked enough by a U.S. Supreme Court decision that it allowed its athletes to finally pursue “Name, Image, Likeness (NIL)” deals in which they are allowed to make money from personal sponsorships. 

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Then we come to the high school level of football. Longtime viewers of American teenage dramas may have a pretty good idea of what a U.S. high school is now but here’s a primer for those who don’t. High school is the highest level of free public education in the U.S. before the more academically (and financially) strenuous college system. High school follows eighth grade (which together with seventh grade usually comprises of “middle school”) and consists of freshmen (ninth graders or 14-15-year-olds), sophomores (tenth graders or 15-16-year-olds), juniors (11th graders or 16-17-year-olds), and seniors (12 graders of 17-18-year-olds).

In some areas of the country, high school football is a bigger deal than college football or even the NFL. Though this level of the sport is played by essentially children, a high school football team may be the only competitive sports enterprise within hundreds of miles for some communities. This is particularly true in the massive U.S. state of Texas. Every region of the U.S. loves football, but passion for the sport is particularly acute in the Southeast, Midwest, and Texas. West Texas, where Friday Night Lights is set, is really high school football mad. The region is distinctly rural and far removed from the state’s three big cities – Houston, Austin, and Dallas. As such, high school football is the singular cultural force that many oil-drilling West Texas communities rally around.

High school football leagues across the country differ considerably, but like in college football, schools are generally grouped together by size and funding. Public and private high schools are able to compete in the same sports conferences as long as they have similar enrollments and budgets. Typically a high school football season consists of only 10 games (football is a physically brutal sport and as such plays far fewer games per year than other sports like baseball, basketball, or soccer). The regular season is usually followed by a bracket-style playoffs culminating in a state championship. There is no country-wide tournament, which is why “winning state” is the ultimate goal in Friday Night Lights. 

The Rules of American Football

I won’t lie to you: this is going to be difficult. Explaining any sport from scratch is a tall task, let alone a sport as complicated as football. Let me attempt to do so from the ground up and please be patient. There will be some visual aids as well.

First, it’s probably helpful to know about the field that football is played on. There’s a reason why in some European markets that the sport is known as “Gridiron Football” and that’s because the field resembles a cooking utensil known as a gridiron.

Every American football field consists of 100 yards (split into two sides of 1-50 yards). At the end of each side of the field is an “endzone.” A player entering into the endzone with the football is called a “touchdown” and nets a team six points. At the back of each endzone are the goalposts – yellow tuning fork-like structures that the ball is occasionally kicked through for more points. These are akin to rugby’s goalposts but slightly differently shaped. Let’s table the whole kicking thing for now and focus strictly on the action on the field.

The goal of football is to enter into the endzone with the ball to score points and have more points at the end of the game than the other team. A football game is 60 minutes, split into four 15-minute quarters (with a lengthy halftime break after the second quarter). Eleven players take the field for each team, one side on “offense” and one side on “defense.” A coin is flipped at the beginning of each game to decide who gets to start as offense and who gets to start as defense. The team who began the game on defense will get to be the offense at the start of the second half.

The offense is charged with advancing the ball 100 yards down the field into the end zone, while the defense is tasked with stopping them by tackling the person with the football to the ground. The offense is granted four tries or “plays” to try to score. The action isn’t continuous in American football like it is in European football. After a team runs a play to attempt to advance the ball, they get a 40-second break to plot their next play. A play simply refers to the action on the field that the offense takes to get down the field. It begins with the “center” “snapping” the ball to the “quarterback” behind him and ends when the offense either scores (rare) or is foiled in some way – whether that means being tackled in bounds, stepping out of bounds, or throwing the ball out of bounds. Here is a chart of the typical football positions.

The offense’s two most reliable ways of advancing the ball downfield are either throwing it or running it. On a running play, the quarterback (Jason Street or Matt Saracen in Friday Night Lights) will receive the snap and hand it off to a running back (Smash Williams or Tim Riggins) who tries to run the ball upfield while his teammates block for him. Alternatively, the quarterback can throw the ball to an open wide receiver as long as the throw originates from behind the line of scrimmage (the area on the field where the play originated). 

Four tries to reach the end zone are rarely enough opportunities for the offense. Thankfully, that’s where “first downs” come in. If the offense advances 10 yards, their “downs” or attempts to score reset back to the full four. That’s where terms like “1st and 10” or “2nd and 7” or “4th and 1” come from. The first number refers to which “down” or attempt the offense is on (1, 2, 3, or 4) while the second number refers to how many yards they need to reach to achieve another first down. Due to penalties or a player being tackled well behind the line of scrimmage (called a “sack” or a “tackle for loss”), the number of yards needed to reach a first down can exceed 10. One time in 2012, the Washington Football Team even had a “3rd and 50”, meaning they needed to move 50 yards for a first down. 

If the offense fails to score or get a first down while on fourth down, possession of the ball is granted to the other team on the same spot that the offense failed. This is called a “turnover on downs.” The team that was previously on offense will bring their defensive unit into the game while the other team will bring their offensive unit. At the collegiate and professional level, players usually only play on one “side” of the ball – offense or defense. In high school, where the level of talent is more inconsistent, it’s not uncommon for several players to be on both the offensive and defensive units. This doesn’t come up much on Friday Night Lights though – for the most part the offensive players stay on offense and the defensive players stay on defense.

It is possible for the defense to force a turnover in other ways beyond just a turnover on downs. If the offense drops or “fumbles”’ the ball and the defense recovers it, it belongs to them. If the defense catches a ball thrown by the offense it is an “interception” and the offense suddenly becomes the defense and the defense suddenly becomes the offense. This situation factors prominently in Friday Night Light’s first episode. 

Turnovers are awful, so the offense has a couple of tools to combat them. At any point during their drive down the field, the offense can choose to “punt” the ball. This means that if they’ve reached 4th down and are unlikely to convert a first down (if it is 4th and 10 from their own 30 yardline for instance), they can choose to have a kicking specialist called a “punter” enter the field. The punter receives the snap, tosses the ball up in the air, and punts the ball far down the field to the other team to catch and try to advance. This is a surrender from the offense but at least they’re making things a bit more difficult for the other offense by pushing the new offense further down the field. Punts rarely factor into Friday Night Lights as they aren’t particularly interesting. 

Alternatively, if the offense is close to the end zone but not close enough that they’re confident they can reach it, they can attempt to kick the ball through the aforementioned goalposts for three points. A “kicker” is brought onto the field and attempts to kick the ball through the goalposts from the ground. A “holder” is allowed to hold the ball upright for the kicker but the ball must be touching the ground for the attempt to count.

Let’s delve a little further into the scoring system. We’ve mentioned that kicking the ball through the uprights is a field goal and nets three points while carrying the ball into the endzone is a touchdown and nets six points. But there are a couple other ways to score in football as well. After a touchdown is achieved, the offense is immediately granted the opportunity to score again. They must choose whether they want to kick the ball through the uprights from extremely close range (which nets one extra point) or to try to reach the end zone again from extremely close range (which nets two extra points). Additionally, if the offense is tackled in their own end zone, it nets two points for the opposing team and they receive the ball back via punt. This is called a “safety.”

To recap: 

Safety: 2 points

Field Goal: 3 points

Touchdown: 6 points (+1 for a field goal attempt, +2 for a scoring attempt).

This means that football scores can generate pretty much any result other than 1-0 or 1-1. Typically a “normal” scoring game will be somewhere between the 20-40 range in divisions of 7 or 3. A score of 35-28 is a pretty usual final football score.

Still confused? That’s understandable. Football is a fairly confusing sport at times. But hopefully you are a little better equipped to understand the action on the field in Friday Night Lights. The show certainly isn’t trying to present a complicated depiction of football. Armed with the basics, you should have a rough idea of what’s happening during all the football action. 

If you feel like you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to move on to the final section of this piece.

The Strategy of American Football

The only constant in football is change. The rules of the sport are tweaked every single year and sometimes the sport undergoes truly massive alterations. In fact, the forward pass itself (now a staple of the game) wasn’t even legal for the first few decades of football’s existence. As such, the offensive and defensive strategies of football are in a constant state of flux. 

What’s interesting to note about Friday Night Lights is how old-fashioned its depiction of football appears to be at the series’ beginning. Keep in mind that this story began with the 1988 Permian Panthers. So despite premiering and taking place in 2006, the Dillon Panthers offense looks quite antiquated at first. 

The Dillon Panthers open the series as a run-first offense in a “Wing-T” formation. Running back Brian “Smash” Williams is the cornerstone of the Panthers’ strategy because back in the ‘80s and ‘90s, athletically superior running backs were usually the most dominant force in any high school offense. The Panthers plan of attack is to have a fast tailback (colloquially called a “running back” because they begin the play in the backfield and then…run)  and a strong fullback in the backfield alongside the quarterback. The Panthers’ plan is to snap the ball, give it to the fast guy, have him follow the big blockers, then rinse and repeat.

Interestingly enough, the show uses the primitiveness of the Panthers’ offense to its advantage in later seasons. When some parents and Panthers boosters (literally just rich people that support a high school or college team) want to oust Coach Eric Taylor, they point to his inability to change with the times and create a sophisticated passing attack as one reason. Coach Taylor does eventually attempt to implement a “spread” offense. 

Spread offenses were all the rage at the high school and collegiate level in the early aughts. The “spread” strategy refers to “spreading” three to five wide receivers on the line of scrimmage to force the defense to cover them man-to-man. Defenses are always strategizing just like offenses, and by forcing the defense to spread out and guard many receivers, it takes away a lot of their more sophisticated coverage options (like double-teaming or divvying up the field into “zones” of coverage). 

In later seasons, when Coach Taylor gains access to a fast, dynamic quarterback, he incorporates a bit of the “option” into his spread offense. This is where the QB uses the spacing from the spread to scan the field, analyze certain players’ positioning on the defense, and decide to pass the ball, hand off the ball, or run the ball himself.

Based on all this, it sounds like Eric Taylor is a pretty brilliant coach, right? Well, not exactly. The internet is littered with breakdowns of Taylor’s strategy from smart football minds. Most of said articles criticize him on two big fronts. The first is his tardiness in adapting to a pass-heavy offense. The second is his absolutely abominable clock management. Since the clock counts down in American football and there is no stoppage time, managing time is a huge part of a coach’s responsibility. 

Since the show naturally wants to inject some drama into its football scenes, the Dillon Panthers as coached by Eric Taylor often have next to 0 clock awareness. This breakdown even notes than in the pilot episode, the Panthers somehow only move the ball 30 yards in five minutes of gametime. That is…pretty curious. 

Also, while it’s not uncommon for a head coach to specialize in either the defensive or offensive side of the ball, Eric Taylor’s is particularly offensive-focused. Defensive plays aren’t as exciting to depict on television, so Coach Taylor is rarely shown coaching up the defensive half of his team. That’s a pretty big blindspot when it comes to head coaching. 

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Now that you’ve read through this full breakdown of American football, give Friday Night Lights a watch or a rewatch. Who knows – you may even be a sharper football mind than Coach Taylor at this point.

The post Friday Night Lights: A Non-American’s Guide to American Football appeared first on Den of Geek.

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