Will Wade - McNeese State - Creating a Standard
by Texas High School Coaches Association
Description
Join Coach Will Wade’s in-depth course on establishing a results-driven program. Dive into a proven framework emphasizing accountability, discipline, and measurable progress. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting, this course provides actionable insights on setting and maintaining team standards that drive success both on and off the field.
What You’ll Learn:
- Setting Core Standards – Learn how to establish non-negotiables that shape a strong team culture and define daily expectations.
- Grading and Ranking Systems – Discover effective tools for assessing player performance, ranking athletes, and providing transparent, data-driven feedback.
- Communication and Accountability – Get strategies for handling tough conversations with players and parents, ensuring alignment on team goals.
- Pillars of Team Success – Develop respect, discipline, and a "team-first" mentality that players can carry forward beyond sports.
With practical advice, real-life examples, and supporting materials, this course is perfect for coaches ready to elevate their program and foster a culture of excellence. Join now to start building the winning standards that every successful team needs!
Lessons
The Coach
In 2024, Coach Will Wade led McNeese to one of the most memorable seasons in school history, claiming both the Southland Conference regular season and tournament titles and earning the Cowboys their first NCAA Tournament bid in over two decades. The season capped off with a remarkable 30-4 record, an 18-0 streak at home, and accolades that included Southland Conference Coach of the Year, Louisiana Coach of the Year, and NABC District 22 Coach of the Year honors. Wade was also a finalist for the Jim Phelan and Hugh Durham National Coach of the Year Awards.
Known by his nickname “The American Gangster,” Wade brought an unmatched energy to the Cowboys' bench, securing his 200th career win and defeating Big Ten powerhouse Michigan for the program's first-ever victory over a Big Ten school. Under his leadership, players like Shahada Wells and Christian Shumate excelled, with Wells earning Southland Player and Newcomer of the Year honors, and Shumate named Defensive Player of the Year.
Statistically, the Cowboys dominated, ranking among the top five in the nation in categories such as scoring margin, turnover margin, and field goal defense. Their season featured many "firsts" for the program, including votes in the AP and Coaches Top 25 polls and the team earning "team of the week" honors multiple times.
Wade’s coaching career, which spans over a decade, includes successful stints at Chattanooga, VCU, LSU, and now McNeese, with six NCAA Tournament appearances and an overall record of 218-98. His five-year tenure at LSU saw consistent winning seasons, with highlights including an SEC regular season championship in 2019, a Sweet 16 appearance, and 105 wins, placing him as the fourth-winningest coach in LSU history. Wade’s tenure at VCU also featured two NCAA Tournament appearances, with the Rams reaching the second round in 2016.
A Nashville native and Clemson alumnus, Wade brings a data-driven approach to coaching, using analytics to influence game strategy and enhance his teams' performance. His career started as a student manager and later Director of Basketball Operations at Clemson, progressing through roles at Harvard and VCU, where he was pivotal in recruiting and strategic game planning.
Beyond his career accolades, Coach Wade remains committed to program stability and success, fostering a dynamic and competitive atmosphere on the court. He and his wife, Lauren, are parents to a daughter, Caroline Elizabeth.
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This Course Includes
| Lifetime access |
| Certificate of completion |
| 100% money back guarantee |
Course Info
| Rating: | (0) |
|---|---|
| Caterory: | Basketball/Culture & Team Development |
