Becoming a Coach

Igniting Passion and Building Bonds: An Inspiring Conversation with Coach Malek and Coach Ryder

Hey, readers! We've got something exciting for you today – an exclusive interview with two incredible coaches, Coach Malek and Coach Ryder. Grab a seat and join us as we dive into their journey and their passion for fitness.

Coach Ryder: So, Coach Malek I'm curious, during your time at MC and playing football with Goff, was that when your love for fitness and lifting really took off?

Coach Malek: Absolutely. Seeing those massive guys at MC when I was a freshman was intimidating at first. I realized I needed to step up my game. But what truly fueled my passion was a moment during our junior year. Goff designed these motivational shirts, "Back With A Vengeance," after a tough loss. Wearing those shirts united us, sparked an intense passion for fitness, the grind, and overall being more prepared than the competition. It became more than just a workout routine; it became a lifestyle.

Coach Ryder: That's powerful. Sometimes, adversity can be the best motivator. I had a similar experience in my high school football days. Losing a crucial game during my sophomore year was a turning point. I stayed up till 2 a.m., vowing never to experience that defeat again. Unfortunately, I couldn't play in my senior year bell game due to a concussion, but that fire never died down.

Coach Malek: It's amazing how these experiences shape us.

Coach Ryder: When did you realize coaching was your calling?

Coach Malek: It actually happened out of the blue. Coach Maz, our head football coach at MC, called me one day, asking if I wanted to coach. I hadn't considered it before then, but after that first year I was lucky to have a great group of guys and I was hooked. Coaching was incredibly rewarding. I found immense joy in guiding and inspiring young athletes.

Coach Ryder: as a strength and conditioning coach, how do you tailor programs for athletes with diverse body types and goals?

Coach Malek: Great question. In high school, it's all about building a solid foundation, focusing on fundamental lifts like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. Instead of creating numerous individualized programs, we categorize athletes into groups like linemen and lighter players. This approach helps us create effective, generalized programs that lay a strong foundation.

Coach Ryder: That makes a lot of sense, especially for high school athletes. Now, you mentioned pull-ups as a crucial exercise. Why do you consider them so important?

Coach Malek: Pull-ups are fundamental. They improve posture, shoulder strength, and prevent injuries. Plus, you can do them anywhere, making them accessible for everyone. In our society, where posture issues are common, mastering pull-ups can make a significant difference in overall well-being.

Coach Ryder: Wise words. Lastly, building respect and trust as a coach can be challenging, especially with teenagers. How do you manage to command respect from your athletes?

Coach Malek: It boils down to caring genuinely. One quote sums it up perfectly: "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." Honesty, transparency, and showing that you genuinely care about their progress and well-being are key. When athletes feel your sincerity, they respond with respect and dedication.

And there you have it, folks – a glimpse into the inspiring journeys of Coach Malek and Coach Ryder. Their passion for fitness, resilience, and genuine care for their athletes are the driving forces behind their coaching success in Marin County. Stay tuned for more interviews and stories that fuel your motivation!

Marin's Front-Row Seat to the Sky: San Francisco Fleet Week & the Legendary Blue Angels

Hey there, Marin residents and Bay Area enthusiasts! It's that time of the year again when the skies above San Francisco come alive with roaring engines, cool maneuvers, and the unmistakable thunderous rumble of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.

One of San Francisco's most popular annual events, Fleet Week, is returning, Oct. 2-10, 2023. This annual celebration of the brave men and women who have served our country includes a parade of ships, live music, and a breathtaking air show that features the most famous aerial acrobats in the nation, the Blue Angels. San Francisco Fleet Week is back, and this year promises to be a spectacle like no other.

Spots to Watch

• Treasure Island, San Francisco.

  Crowds gather along the west shore to watch the jets race across the Bay. At times, they'll swoop right over you as they head west to the city. The show can be especially loud from this spot: Bring earplugs. Services are limited so pack a picnic.

• Fort Baker, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Sausalito.

  If you live in Marin, this spot tucked behind the Golden Gate Bridge is convenient. The Battery Yates Trail (pay attention to closed habitat areas), the fishing pier and jetty, and the area in front of the U.S. Coast Guard Station all offer views of the Bay. Clear skies? The parking lot will fill up. Arrive early.

• Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation, Sausalito.

  Battery Spencer offers unparalleled views because you're at eye level with the planes and is the first spot to fill up. You can also see the performance from Hawk Hill (pictured) and along Conzelman Road. If you want to go for a hike and catch occasional views of the planes, try walking from the Smith Parking Lot along the Julian Fire Trail. Don't forget to pack out your trash.

• Coit Tower, North Beach, San Francisco.

  Take in 365-degree views of the city, the Bay and both the Golden Gate and Bay bridges from Pioneer Park surrounding this concrete tower. Walk up the steps from North Beach or the Filbert Steps from Montgomery Street.

• Twin Peaks, San Francisco.

  You'll be watching from a distance but you'll catch the full scope of the show. If you want to drive, arrive early. It's better to hike up from Noe Valley.

Fleet Week isn't just for aviation enthusiasts; it's a family-friendly event that brings communities together. Pack a picnic, gather your loved ones, and head to Crissy Field in San Francisco, just a few miles south from Marin. There, you can witness the aerial stunts, marvel at the precision formations, and even catch a glimpse of other military aircraft performing jaw-dropping maneuvers.

At 3:00 p.m. each day, the Blue Angels roar in over the Golden Gate Bridge; such a cool sight!

Six navy fighter planes perform frighteningly daring stunts over San Francisco Bay. Precision flying at its most breathtaking. Don't miss this! This is what most of the crowds have come to see.

As you enjoy the high-flying action, remember that Marin County has a rich maritime history that makes Fleet Week even more special. With its stunning marinas, coastal beauty, and strong ties to the sea, Marin's connection to the event is undeniable.

So, folks, mark your calendars and prepare to be amazed! San Francisco Fleet Week, featuring the iconic Blue Angels, is a spectacle that Marin residents won't want to miss. Whether you're a history buff, an aviation enthusiast, or simply looking for a fantastic day out with family and friends, this event has something for everyone.

Get ready to gaze skyward, feel the adrenaline rush, and celebrate our maritime heritage during this unforgettable Bay Area extravaganza. See you at Fleet Week, Marin style!