On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we're joined by Jas Bains, Head Coach at Western Colorado University and member of the AFCA Board of Trustees. Now in his 15th season, Coach Bains reflects on his coaching journey, how he’s built long-term success, and the role of leadership and special teams in his program.
In this episode, Coach Bains shares valuable lessons from his early coaching days, how he earned trust as a young coordinator, and his approach to developing a strong team culture that lasts. He also talks about the importance of staying connected to the coaching profession through his work with the AFCA.
🕒 Episode Timestamps:
1:18 – Introduction
1:45 – When did you know you wanted to coach?
4:20 – Playing at Willamette and Fresno State
5:46 – Landing his first coaching job
10:50 – Lessons from the early years
13:34 – How a GA role led to full-time promotion
16:15 – Special teams philosophy and success
20:03 – Becoming Defensive & Special Teams Coordinator at Western Colorado
22:10 – Adjusting as a young coordinator
24:25 – Teaching players and coaches all positions
27:00 – Leading peers close in age
29:30 – Balancing two coordinator roles
31:50 – Transitioning to Head Coach
38:58 – Hiring his first staff
44:28 – Longevity and building a strong culture
48:58 – Developing coaching staff chemistry
53:52 – Serving on the AFCA Board of Trustees
55:58 – Final thoughts
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