Sean Brosnan on Beyond Fast, Newbury Park, UCLA and What’s Next

We talk with Sean Brosnan, the coach behind Newbury Park High School’s historic cross country program and co-author of the new book with Chris Lear and Andrew Geif dropping today "Beyond Fast." Sean discusses his unconventional coaching journey, the making of a high school dynasty, and his philosophies on training, athlete development, and overcoming challenges.

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• Show notes:


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  1:02 Introduction to Sean Brosnan
  Meet Sean and hear about his background, achievements at Newbury Park, and the new book "Beyond Fast."

  
  


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  2:10 Sean's Journey to Writing 'Beyond Fast'
  Sean shares what inspired him to write the book and what it was like working with co-authors Chris Lear and Andrew Grefe.

  
  


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  4:34 Sean's Unique Coaching Path
  From BMX to running, five colleges, and a winding road to coaching—Sean explains his unconventional journey and influences.

  
  


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  12:29 Innovative Training Methods
  Sean challenges conventional running wisdom, discusses his approach to mileage, and how he keeps athletes progressing year-round.

  
  


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  18:38 Building the Newbury Park Dynasty
  The early days at Newbury Park, earning buy-in from parents and athletes, and setting ambitious goals.

  
  


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  27:43 The Rise of Newbury Park's Fame
  The team’s growing popularity, social media, and the “4:20 isn’t fast” movement.

  
  


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  32:06 Sean's Departure from Newbury Park for UCLA
  Why Sean left for UCLA, the transition, and differences between high school and college coaching.

  
  


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  34:34 Challenges and Criticisms at Newbury Park
  Addressing common criticisms about athlete recruitment and the program’s success.

  
  


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  40:20 NCAA Violations and Legal Battle
  Sean discusses the NCAA investigation, his appeal, and the impact on his coaching career.

  
  


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  49:17 Current Coaching Endeavors and Future Plans
  Sean’s current work with post-collegiate athletes and plans for a new pro group.

  
  


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  52:28 Nico Young's Development and Potential
  Insights on coaching Nico Young and the development of elite talent.

  
  


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  58:27 Coaching Philosophy and Hard Workouts
  Sean’s belief in hard workouts, athlete individuality, and the balance between training and racing.

  
  


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  1:01:30 Conclusion and Book Promotion
  Final thoughts, where to find "Beyond Fast," and special offers for listeners.

  
  

Notable Quotes

• “I always hate the word base phase. ... I like to do everything year round, and to me it's all progression.” (12:38)


• “You gotta get the parents' support. ... ” (15:59)


• “I love showing up. ... I love trying to figure out how to get someone faster.” (25:32)


• “It's not that hard to be good in high school. ... If you have five guys that run four 20, you're like a top team in the country.” (16:40)


• “I think people are so scared to push that red line of like, of really hard workouts. ... You gotta callous the system a little bit.” (59:06)

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