Culture is an integral part of our lives, and it shapes who we are and how we behave. It is a set of shared beliefs, values, and customs that define a particular group of people. For Brian Kelly, the newly appointed head coach of Louisiana State University (LSU), culture holds immense importance. In his own words, “Culture is standards, right?” This statement speaks volumes about Kelly’s approach to coaching and his dedication to building a winning program at LSU.
Kelly’s journey to the top of college football began in 2006 when he took over as the head coach at the University of Cincinnati. He quickly established a culture of hard work, discipline, and accountability, which propelled the team to unprecedented success. In 2009, he led the Bearcats to an undefeated regular season and a top-five ranking. This remarkable achievement caught the attention of powerhouse football programs, and Kelly soon moved on to coach at the University of Notre Dame.
At Notre Dame, Kelly faced the challenge of rebuilding a storied program that had fallen on hard times. It was here that he honed his coaching philosophy and developed the principles that would guide him throughout his career. Under his guidance, Notre Dame became a consistent top-ten team, and in 2012, Kelly led the Fighting Irish to the national championship game. Although they fell short of winning the title, Kelly’s impact on the program was undeniable.
Now, as he takes over the reins at LSU, Kelly is determined to instill the same winning culture that has defined his coaching career. For him, culture is not just a buzzword; it is the foundation on which successful teams are built. And he knows that building a winning culture starts with setting high standards.
“To me, it’s hard work. It’s standards. It’s habits. It’s a way of life,” Kelly said in an interview back in December 2021. These words reflect his no-nonsense approach to coaching. Kelly believes that success is not achieved overnight, but through consistent hard work and a commitment to excellence. He sets high standards for himself and his players, and he expects nothing less than their best effort every day.
For Kelly, culture is also about instilling good habits in his players. He knows that success is not a one-time event, but a result of daily habits and routines. He pushes his players to develop discipline and consistency in everything they do, both on and off the field. This not only helps them perform at their best but also prepares them for life beyond football.
But what makes Kelly’s approach to culture truly unique is his belief that it is a way of life. He understands that building a winning program is not just about on-field success, but also about creating a positive environment where players can thrive. Kelly sees himself not just as a coach, but also as a mentor and a father figure to his players. He takes the responsibility of shaping young men’s lives very seriously and believes that the culture he establishes at LSU will have a lasting impact on his players.
However, building a winning culture is not an easy task. It requires dedication, hard work, and sacrifice from both the coaches and the players. And sometimes, it also means making tough decisions and pushing players beyond their limits. Kelly knows this all too well and has even made a tough family admission to explain why he pushes his players so hard.
In a recent interview, Kelly revealed that his son, a former college football player himself, had struggled with depression and anxiety due to the pressure to perform on the field. This experience has made Kelly acutely aware of the mental and emotional toll that the game can take on players. It has also strengthened his resolve to prioritize the well-being of his players and create a culture that supports them both on and off the field.
Kelly’s dedication to building a strong culture at LSU has not gone unnoticed. His arrival has sparked a renewed sense of optimism and excitement within the LSU community. Fans and players alike are eager to see what he will bring to the program, and there is a renewed belief that the Tigers can return to their winning ways under his leadership.
In conclusion, culture is the cornerstone of any successful team, and for Brian Kelly, it is a way of life. His unwavering commitment to setting high standards, instilling good habits, and creating a positive environment will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the LSU football program. As the 2022 season approaches, all eyes will be on Kelly and
