Building something bigger than us requires vision, focus, patience, the right team, communication, and a relentless commitment to continuing education – just to name a few.

Master Strength Coach and Director of Sports Performance at Georgetown University Michael Hill has demonstrated all of these qualities as he has built Georgetown’s program over the last 15 years, and today, he joins us on the BHP to share some of his wisdom with us.

As director of sports performance, Coach Hill oversees 29 TEAMSyes, 29 teams – at Georgetown University and he’s making a positive impact on thousands of student athletes while building a program and organization that emphasizes doing things the right way.

We talk about how he’s built the program with only a handful of coaches who had to make due with outdated facilities into one that features a first class staff, elite facilities, and a leading role in their field. Coach Hill’s role requires leadership in multiple layers: from developing his coaching staff and their interns, to all the student athletes they collective are charged with molding and shaping.

These are responsibilities that Coach Hill embraces with his whole being and I’m honored to call him a friend and chat with him on the Better Human Project.

Show Notes

  • Mike is the strength training head coach for Georgetown.
  • Starting as an intern in 2004 he has worked his way up through the ranks and has overseen tremendous growth in facilities and programs.
  • Listen to how important human connection and being strong, compassionate individuals is to the Georgetown programs.
  • Mike looks for coaches and athletes that do the right thing when no one is looking.
  • Every workout with a team is a learning opportunity and chance to impart a lesson that applies outside of the weight room or outside of the sport.
  • Seeking knowledge through books or podcasts is one of those joys of life. Understanding how to internalize and implement those learnings is a skill we can always develop more.
  • “Politicking with a 4 year old is like trying to teach a dog the concept of tomorrow”
  • Mike believes setting an example is one of the most important aspect of his job. If students/athletes see him reading a book, exercising, exchanging pleasantries with strangers, coming in early, and being prepared he hopes this gives them a path to follow.
  • 50:18 – Rapid Fire
  • 58:20 – Be Better Do Better

Links & Resources