043: Cultivating Leadership with Clifton Bush

It’s hard to argue with the importance of having a reliable leader between the posts. Clifton Bush, currently the Assistant Coach of the UNC Asheville Bulldogs, has developed goalkeepers from the youth level all the way through D1 collegiate athletes. He examines the key qualities he looks for in a leader and a #1, and explores ways to encourage those qualities – even in players who are not naturally extroverts.

Clifton discusses what it means to be a leader on the field, and how all of his young goalkeepers at UNCA – despite great diversity in their strengths and talents – are growing into that vital role. He also talks about his own coaching development, the steps he took with Gary Curneen at Cal State – Bakersfield, and the growth that he experienced when he was asked to coach field players as well as goalkeepers.

Among other things, Clifton also addresses the question, “Do goalkeepers need to be leaders?” And if so, how can we foster leadership in those not naturally inclined to lead? The episode is full of insight, and there’s even more in the Outtakes segment below. I hope you enjoy it!

Special thanks to Clifton Bush for joining me!