Hoka NAZ Elite with Ben Rosario | Koopcast Episode 132
Episode overview:
Ben Rosario is the Executive director of the Hoka Northern Arizona Elite team. In this episode we discuss what makes a great elite training team and how culture can help drive performance.
Episode highlights:
(12:58) The advantages of training with a team: support systems, training with like-minded individuals, motivation
(32:04) Making elite athletes more accessible: highlighting athlete personalities
(46:16) People-first training models: athlete support, confidence, and the evolution of trail running communities
Our conversation:
(0:00) Introduction: Ben Rosario and Hoka NAZ Elite
(2:30) Growth of Hoka NAZ Elite: expanding as a business and Ben’s new role as Executive Director
(5:30) Origins of Hoka NAZ Elite: Ben’s background in running and business management creates a dream team in Flagstaff
(7:45) Early success of NAZ Elite: post-2013 and signing with Hoka
(10:57) Running is a team effort:: even “solo” athletes treat running as a team sport
(12:58) The advantages of training with a team: support systems, training with like-minded individuals, motivation
(14:12) The evolution of athlete support systems: resources at Hoka NAZ Elite
(16:05) Key differentiators in elite performance: training interventions or training culture?
(17:20) Recruiting athletes: ensuring a good team fit
(20:57) Recruiting athletes: prioritizing outreach to coaches
(22:03) Coaching at NAZ Elite: individualized training and team workouts
(25:52) The support ecosystem: in-house versus outsourced athlete support
(29:42) The evolution of elite running teams: opportunities for post-collegiate runners
(32:04) Making elite athletes more accessible: highlighting athlete personalities
(39:05) The role of Hoka in NAZ Elite: revenue sources and sponsorships
(41:30) Future goals of NAZ Elite: adopting the cycling model, additional major sponsors, growth of the company as a professional and involved sports organization
(46:16) People-first training models: athlete support, confidence, and the evolution of trail running communities
(52:27) Wrap-up: the legacy of Hoka NAZ Elite and where to follow the team
(53:39) Outro: giving thanks, key takeaways, and future podcast guests
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