3 Key Takeaways from Joe Delagrave: A Journey of Resilience and Path to Wheelchair Rugby and Team USA

In this episode of For the Love of Sport, Joe Delagrave, Team USA Wheelchair Rugby Coach, joins us to discuss his journey from athlete to coach and the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way. Joe shares how his resilience shapes his coaching philosophy, emphasizing life skills that extend far beyond the court. 

Here are the key takeaways: 

1.Culture and Opportunity: 

Joe emphasizes the importance of creating a culture that feels like home—one where athletes feel supported, valued, and inspired to grow. Drawing from his own experience of choosing a school that felt like the right fit, he highlights how fostering a sense of belonging and opportunity can empower athletes to thrive both on and off the court. 

2. Speak Your Goals into Existence: 

Joe highlights the importance of sharing your goals with others as a way to stay accountable and motivated. By openly expressing his ambitions, he took a bold leap, moving across the country to train—a risk that paid off. His journey shows how vocalizing your goals can transform dreams into action and inspire others to support you along the way. 

3. The Power of the 3 V's: 

Joe emphasizes the importance of ensuring athletes feel valued, have a voice, and clearly understand the vision of the program. As a coach, he highlights the need for transparency and open communication, fostering an environment where everyone feels included and empowered. By prioritizing these principles, coaches can build trust, enhance team cohesion, and create a culture where athletes thrive both personally and collectively. 

Want to hear more? 

Join hosts Simon and Marie as they dive into Joe’s inspiring journey and coaching wisdom in this can't-miss episode!