Iowa high school coaching legend Tom Wilson of Dowling Catholic led his team to state championships in seven consecutive seasons before that streak ended this fall. We took a deep dive on culture-building, and Coach Wilson talked about the steps he took to establish that culture when he was hired as head coach 16 years ago. Topics include: The first steps he took toward creating a championship culture after his hire (3:10). The questions he asks applicants when they’re interviewing for a position on his staff (11:00). How he sets expectations and holds players accountable (15:10). How he structures his strength and conditioning program (18:30). How he designed a point system to reward players for a 12-month commitment (22:30). What his networking sessions are like with other coaches (26:30). What he asks players annual exit interviews (29:45). Why he loves off-site team-building campus with required reading (33:30). How recruiting is different during the pandemic (34:30). How he set up a feeder system (36:45). How his Booster Club functions (42:20). A 2020 fundraiser that worked with alumni on social media (43:30). His tradition of calling alumni on the night before the state championship game (45:30). A new piece of technology he started using in 2021 (48:00). How he monitors players’ mental health more than ever (50:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices