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119 | Part 8: Positive Coaching Alliance’s Rich Tomey Reflects on the Lasting Impact of his Dad, Coach Dick Tomey
, Rich vividly recounts memories of his father, revealing both personal anecdotes and professional insights that highlight Coach Tomey’s unique approach to leadership and personal growth. Known for his mantra, “football isn’t complicated; people are,” Coach Tomey’s consistent focus on relationship-building and personal development are themes repeatedly echoed by those who knew him best.
The discussion centers around the enduring influence of Dick Tomey’s values, particularly the importance of perseverance and the prioritization of people over results. Rich shares how his father’s life lessons have shaped his own career path with the Positive Coaching Alliance, where he strives to instill character and integrity in coaching. The episode also explores Coach Tomey’s career from his early years in Hawaii to his noteworthy achievements at Arizona and San Jose State University, highlighting his commitment to nurturing grit and character in athletes.
You. Aren’t. Done. YET.
Becoming UnDone: Where High Achievers Turn Setbacks into Comebacks. Join Dr. Toby Brooks as he guides you through the art of transforming unfinished goals into unstoppable growth, one inspiring story at a time.
Achievers aim high, but to fall short is fundamentally human. Sometimes we fail. Sometimes we simply run out of time. Either way, it is what we do with the end of one chapter that can make all the difference in the next. Do we fall apart at the seams, coming undone to be forever branded as someone who lost? Or do we see the fuller picture, recognizing that the task remains unfinished and understanding that the end of a chapter isn’t the same as the end of the story. Becoming UnDone is the podcast for those who dare bravely, try mightily, and grow relentlessly. Join author, speaker, and host Dr. Toby Brooks as he invites a new guest each episode to examine how high achievers can transform from falling apart to falling into place.
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118 | Part 7: Coach Dave Fipp Reflects on Coach Dick Tomey’s Enduring Legacy and Leadership
Toby Brooks delves into the enduring impact of Coach Dick Tomey, exploring his unique approach to leadership and mentorship through heartfelt reflections from former players and colleagues. Featuring an interview with Dave Fipp, the Special Teams Coordinator for the Detroit Lions, the episode highlights Tomey’s profound effect on lives both on and off the field, emphasizing a legacy of love, truth, and personal growth. Discover how Tomey’s philosophy continues to shape future generations, underscoring the power of authentic leadership and its lasting influence.
117 | Part 6: Coach Dino Babers Talks Roaches, Man Hugs, and the Art of Building a Team with Love
Join host Toby Brooks as he reflects on the legacy of renowned football coach Dick Tomey with guest Dino Babers, Syracuse University’s former head coach. Brooks shares a personal story about a free T-shirt that inadvertently shaped his life, while Babers recalls valuable lessons learned from Tomey. Explore themes of unwavering commitment, leadership, and the power of storytelling in building team cohesion. Through heartfelt anecdotes, discover how Tomey’s influence extended beyond the football field, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he touched.
116 | Part 5: Coach Rip Scherer: Coach Dick Tomey’s Legacy of Leadership and Resilience
Toby Brooks relives the trials and lessons from the late 90s Arizona football seasons under Coach Dick Tomey. The episode features insights from Coach Rip Shearer, who recounts Coach Tomey’s remarkable leadership, recruitment strategies, and the strong relationships he fostered across his career. From Tomey’s unique game-day tactics to his impact on Shearer’s coaching journey, discover how Tomey’s legacy transcended wins and losses, shaping countless careers in football and beyond. Next, expect stories from Coach Dino Babers and NFL coach Dave Phipp to further illuminate Tomey’s enduring influence.
115 | Part 4: 4X Super Bowl Champ Jesse Sapolu Discusses Coach Dick Tomey’s Legacy: Transforming Lives Through Football and Culture
Toby Brooks delves into the profound influence of Coach Dick Tomey through engaging conversations with NFL star Jesse Sapolu. Sapolu discusses his transformational journey from a troubled teenager to a four-time Super Bowl champion, highlighting Tomey’s pivotal role in his life. Discover how Tomey’s keen understanding of Hawaiian culture and his unique approach to leadership, emphasizing family, respect, and perseverance, left an indelible mark on players and the sport. This episode offers deep insights into leadership and cultural connection, unveiling the legacy of a coach who inspired beyond the game.
114 | Part 3: Coach Dick Vermeil Reflects on Coach Tomey’s Impact
Toby Brooks delves into the impactful legacy of Coach Dick Tomey, revealing intimate stories and lasting lessons from the field. Featuring insights from Hall of Fame coach Dick Vermeil, the episode explores Tomey’s profound influence at UCLA, Hawaii, Arizona, and beyond. Discover how Tomey’s leadership transcended football, emphasizing people and culture over accolades. With guest appearances by Vermeil and other notable figures, Brooks highlights the enduring values and relationships Tomey nurtured, underscoring the power of a coach’s legacy beyond the final whistle.
Your Host
toby brooks
Strategic in purpose. Relentless in pursuit. Better Every Day.
My life’s purpose is to help others discover and pursue theirs.
I’m Toby. I’m a dreamer, a learner, and a doer. I’m currently a professor at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, Texas. My life’s purpose is to help others discover and pursue theirs. I’ve published more than 20 books, 30 peer-reviewed articles, and 200+ magazine articles in a diverse career as an athletic trainer, professor, and automotive journalist.
I have an AS from Southeastern Illinois College, a BS from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and both an MA and PhD from the University of Arizona. As a certified athletic trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist, I have worked with the likes of the Las Vegas Raiders, USA Baseball, Arena football, and minor league baseball in pro sports, several colleges and universities, and nearly a dozen different high schools in a career that has spanned two decades.
I’m a proud dad, husband, author, and speaker and I relentlessly pursue better every day.
