"Be curious, not judgemental."

The hit Apple TV series Ted Lasso is a masterclass in going Beyond the X’s and O’s. We invited Dan Arel to join us and breakdown our biggest lessons and takeaways from the show.

Dan Arel has been coaching youth hockey for nearly a decade and is the Director of Coach & Player Development for the San Diego Oilers. In 2020, he was named The San Diego Gulls Foundation Coach of the Year. Arel is also a regular contributing writer to The Coaches Site, focusing on player development through small area games and good habits.

Arel was a great guest for this episode given our mutual affinity for Ted Lasso as well as his passion to develop players, teams, and leaders. From our conversation, it was evident Arel embodies many Ted Lasso leadership qualities – such as humility and vulnerability. 

Additional topics we dive into included:

• Mental health in sport and coaching
• Creating and leaning on a support team
• Working with the mindset of parents in youth sport
• Finding your authentic coaching/leadership style as a key to success

Make sure you check out Ted Lasso on Apple TV and enjoy the episode as we continue to go Beyond the X’ and O’s.