04/15/2026
NEW EPISODE: I spent an hour with '23 IHSA Coach of the Year, Patrick Gaeger (Saint Viator High School)
Here are 3 tactical takeaways to build an elite program from the inside out:
1) Stop Dictating the Vision:
If the kids don’t define the culture themselves, they won't defend it.
Patrick didn't just hand out the mantra. He assigned the team in groups - separated grades and cliques. They had a week to research and present what it means to them and if they think it fits.
2) The Carpool Culture Builder:
Viator doesn't have an practices 15 mins off campus. Patrick turned the commute into a weapon.
He made a doc for upperclassmen to sign-up with freshmen for carpools. Those 30-mins in a car, everyday, for an entire season, build a bond you can't get in a locker room.
3) Break the Routine:
When you feel a mid-season slump hitting, trade an hour of practice for a classroom culture session. Break the routine to fix the vibes.