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Sarkisian, No. 7 Texas look to bounce back against Florida
Steve Sarkisian and No. 7 Texas return to DKR for a three-game homestand, beginning Saturday against a Florida team led by first-year head coach Jon Sumrall.
Schottenheimer reveals shocking new org chart for Cowboys coaches
The Cowboys are not making things any simpler, as they look to change how things are working for their defense.
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Oct. 16, 2026, puzzle No. 753
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Bucs' Todd Bowles warns defense about Steelers RB Jaylen Warren
Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles urges his defense to wrap up against Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren ahead of Week 6.
Trail Blazers Urged To Make Surprising Decision With Ja Morant
New head coach Micah Nori faces a backcourt logjam, sparking bold suggestions to bench a superstar playmaker in favor of maximizing Damian Lillard’s late-career efficiency and chemistry.
Ravens face familiar foe in Browns coach Monken
Baltimore star quarterback Lamar Jackson remains questionable with a left ankle injury but the Ravens will see a familiar face when they visit the Cleveland Browns in the NFL on Sunday.If Jackson cannot play, the Ravens are looking at another start for Tyler "Snoop" Huntley, who led a comeback victory in Atlanta last Sunday.
California students post gains in math, science and English in 2025-26
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California students made gains across key academic and success measures during the 2025-26 school year, with test scores rising in English, math and science while the statewide graduation rate reached a record high of 87.9 percent. For the first time, the state released assessment results and California School Dashboard data together to give families and educators a more complete picture of student performance.English language arts scores increased 0.5 percentage points to 49.3 percent of students scoring proficient or advanced, while math scores rose 1.1 percentage points to 38.4 percent. Science showed the strongest improvement, jumping 3.3 percentage points to 36 percent of students scoring proficient or advanced.The statewide chronic absenteeism rate dropped 1.1 percentage points to 18.3 percent. The suspension rate declined to 2.8 percent, marking the third consecutive year of improvement."At a time when California continues to focus on accelerating learning and closing opportunity gaps, these results provide important evidence that our sustained investments are making a difference," Gov. Gavin Newsom said. "The continued progress we are seeing is a testament to the hard work of students, families and educators across the state—and we will continue working to build on these gains."The percentage of students prepared for college and career increased to 55.2 percent, up 2 percentage points from the previous year. More than 54 percent of graduates completed coursework required for admission to University of California and California State University systems, an increase of 0.9 percentage points."California has made important strides in expanding student supports and opportunities, but the pace of academic improvement reminds us that our work is far from finished," State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said.Eighth grade students posted the strongest score trends in both English language arts and math. Science performance improved across all tested grades, with the strongest gains at the high school level.African American students demonstrated larger-than-average improvements across English, math and science. Hispanic or Latino students showed larger-than-average improvements in English and math, with positive math score trends across all grades.Students who were socioeconomically disadvantaged made gains across all 3 subjects, including larger-than-average improvements in English and math. Students who were homeless continued to demonstrate gains across grades, with particularly strong improvements in math."We are encouraged to see students making gains across all 3 major assessments and are especially encouraged by the progress of African American students, Hispanic or Latino students, socioeconomically disadvantaged students and homeless youth," said Linda Darling-Hammond, president of the California State Board of Education.The progress comes as California's public school system undergoes significant demographic change. Statewide school enrollment declined to approximately 5.73 million students in 2025-26, nearly 500-thousand fewer students over the past decade.The number of students with disabilities increased approximately 25 percent over the same period, from about 680-thousand to more than 850-thousand students. Graduation rates increased across nearly all student groups, including notable increases for American Indian or Alaskan Native students at 4.3 percentage points and students with disabilities at 3.7 percentage points.In Downey Unified School District, the rate of students demonstrating proficient or advanced grade-level knowledge increased by 2.1 percentage points in English, 2.8 percentage points in math and 4.7 percentage points in science. The district aligned graduation requirements with college admission expectations and invested in inclusive special education practices, expanded career technical education and expanded learning opportunities."The gains Downey Unified is seeing in student assessment results and on the Dashboard are the result of years of focused, consistent work across the district," Superintendent Roger Brossmer said.In Exeter Unified School District, proficiency rates increased by 4.6 percentage points in English, 2.3 percentage points in math and 3.6 percentage points in science. The district placed a strong focus on phonics and the science of reading, particularly in kindergarten through second grade."The gains Exeter Unified is seeing in student assessment results and on the Dashboard are the result of having great people who are focused on the right work, and great students who want to do well," Superintendent Melanie Dorough said.Union Elementary School District saw proficiency rates increase by 1.5 percentage points in English, 2 percentage points in math and 4 percentage points in science. Teachers regularly analyze state and local assessment data to guide instruction, supported by strong core instruction and early literacy strategies."Union Elementary School District's achievement gains reflect a focused, data-driven approach to meeting the needs of every student while fostering a strong sense of belonging, safety and connection," Superintendent Carrie Andrews said.The California Department of Education is examining local results to better understand strategies and conditions associated with stronger student outcomes. The state has made significant investments in recent years, including literacy and math coaching, tutoring, expanded learning opportunities, community schools and universal transitional kindergarten.
Soccer Coach Avoids Eye Contact With Reporter During Awkward Interview: He Was ‘Fighting for His Life’
A soccer coach’s awkward postgame interview has become an unexpected internet sensation. David Oulehla — head coach of Czech soccer team FK Viagem Ústí nad Labem — is getting a lot of attention over his exchange with a female reporter. In a video shared on the team’s Instagram account, Oulehla, 43, appeared determined to avoid […]
Imps can 'grow' from 'brutal' 6-0 Hammers loss
Lincoln City will not be defined by their 6-0 Championship defeat by West Ham, says Imps head coach Tom Shaw.
76ers could explore an unexpected plan involving LeBron James
headlinephotos/Depositphotos Philadelphia 76ers consider James at center The Philadelphia 76ers are considering LeBron James as a possible backup center for the 2026–27 NBA season. Coach Nick Nurse discussed the option on October 7 following injuries within Philadelphia’s frontcourt. Nurse identified James among several players who could provide minutes at center when needed. James, who joined…
Ex-gymnastics coach gets 90 years for secretly filming young athletes
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline offers free, confidential, 24/7 support to survivors and their loved ones in English and Spanish
Mike Elko Addresses Controversial Remarks About Texas A&M Fans
Following a heated "cesspool" critique of Aggie media, the head coach takes full accountability for his team’s struggles while attempting to mend fences with a frustrated fanbase.
Chicago Bears’ Rookie Safety Dillon Thieneman is ‘All Ball’
Some fascinating conversation with Dillon Thieneman's high school head coach about what makes Dillon such a driven player.
Southgate does not foresee a return to management
Former England manager Gareth Southgate has said he does not foresee a return to coaching after his "desire to be involved in football" has changed.So my sort of desire to be involved in football has changed."
Ravens’ Tyler Huntley Draws ‘Overused’ Praise From Browns’ Todd Monken
Before becoming head coach of the Cleveland Browns, Todd Monken was on the Baltimore Ravens coaching staff. He served as Baltimore’s offensive coordinator from 2023 to 2025, where he worked with ultra-talented quarterback Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley. Monken is now planning how to beat his former team, with the Browns and the Ravens set […] The post Ravens’ Tyler Huntley Draws ‘Overused’ Praise From Browns’ Todd Monken appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
Ex-Vikings Coach Lands Gig Down in Dallas
Mike Pettine isn’t unemployed any longer. The ex-Vikings coach is now with the Cowboys. ESPN’s Todd Archer offers the update: […]
Samsung Health Makes Sleep Coaching Easier to Start and Tailors Weekly Guidance
Sleep Coaching starts with three days of data and adjusts weekly, while Running Coach introduces more advanced training and Strava Routes integration
Chargers rumors: LA could weigh offensive coordinator shakeup
If the Chargers make a change at offensive coordinator, an NFL insider believes a former head coach could take over in that role.
Former Flyers Coach Suddenly Departs the NHL
Right now, things aren’t going right for the Philadelphia Flyers, who have yet to win a single game to begin the 2026-27 NHL campaign and are in dead last place in the NHL’s Metropolitan Division.Right now, there is speculation building about the job security of head coach Rick Tocchet.But another notable former Flyers head coach […] The post Former Flyers Coach Suddenly Departs the NHL appeared first on HEAVY.
New Business Spotlight: Hair Haven & Co. and The Hive bring beauty and entrepreneurship to North Knoxville
Two local entrepreneurs are bringing a fresh approach to beauty and self-care in North Knoxville with the opening of Hair Haven & Co. Salon and Spa and The Hive Beauty Supply. Owners Keniya Buley and Breanna Coach celebrated their businesses with a joint ribbon-cutting ceremony September 11 at 2902 Tazewell Pike, Suite D, in the […]
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Oct. 15, 2026, puzzle No. 752
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Quinn Ellis praised by Rick Pitino for playing ‘like a veteran’ in St. John’s preseason win
He scored only three points in St. John’s exhibition opener Wednesday night, but coach Rick Pitino came away impressed by his new point guard anyway.
Vols football linebacker coach William Inge discharged from hospital
Tennessee assistant coach William Inge shared on Wednesday that he was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday after dealing with an undisclosed medical issue.
Philadelphia Phillies Fire 2 Coaches After Early Playoff Exit
The Philadelphia Phillies made some major coaching staff changes after their early exit from the MLB playoffs. The post Philadelphia Phillies Fire 2 Coaches After Early Playoff Exit appeared first on HEAVY.
Pelicans banking on better health and a new coaching staff to improve their unchanged core
The Pelicans are essentially running it back with the same core roster that they've had the past two non-playoff seasons, with Zion Williamson as their centerpiece.
Penn State's Matt Campbell Delivers Strong Message to Recruits
Head coach Matt Campbell has a bold message for recruits on what Penn State is like compared to the Ohio State Buckeyes and Texas Longhorns.
In Final Four homecoming, Detroit organizers tout opportunities of citywide event
Spartans coach Tom Izzo hopes the April event helps the city make its case for another Final Four.
Jeremiyah Love being used as blocker
Arizona Cardinals RB Jeremiyah Love is being used to help out pass protection over running routes, head coach Mike LaFleur said.
Georgia's Kirby Smart expects Auburn to be physical on Saturday
Georgia's head coach was quick to point out how physical Auburn is capable of being ahead of Week 7's matchup in Athens.
Othello raises $8M to help sales reps improve pitches with AI
Othello, whose customers include Microsoft and Capital One, acts as a real-time coach on sales calls to help reps close deals.
Washington Huskies Head Coach Gets Honest About Program's Financial Limitations
Jedd Fisch expanded about the money the teams poured into the roster, which ranks near the bottom of the Big Ten.
Yankees news: Previewing the free agent class
Who will stay and who will go; Bednar’s big question; coaching staff shuffle?; Kay has a question for Judge
Georgia Bulldogs Given Brutal Ole Miss Game Prediction
Coming into the season, the Georgia Bulldogs were seen as one of the best teams in the entire country, and so far, they haven’t disappointed this year.This team is still led by head coach Kirby Smart, giving them an advantage over most other teams in college football. But the Bulldogs have a collection of talent […] The post Georgia Bulldogs Given Brutal Ole Miss Game Prediction appeared first on HEAVY.
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Oct. 14, 2026, puzzle No. 751
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Sean McVay reveals Alaric Jackson’s next move after NFL suspends Rams star for throwing punch
Rams coach Sean McVay confirms Alaric Jackson plans to appeal his two-game NFL suspension for punching Bills linebacker Bradley Chubb after Monday's loss.
“The Voice” coach Riley Green gets pep talk from contestant who rejected him: ‘I think you’re the best’
Hazel Gerson chose to be part of Kelly Clarkson’s team instead of Green’s.
Packers Coach Leaves Door Open for More OL Changes
The Green Bay Packers have started to find some continuity on their offensive line in the past couple of weeks, which has turned a 1-2 record into a 3-2 team. However, the team also has the injured Aaron Banks and recently signed Kevin Zeitler as a potential starter down the line. Offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich […] The post Packers Coach Leaves Door Open for More OL Changes appeared first on HEAVY.
UCF Baseball Only Playing Road Exhibition Games
To conquer the Big 12, Coach Rich Wallace is forcing the Knights out of their comfort zone with a travel-heavy fall slate designed to fix road woes.
Pistons Coach J.B. Bickerstaff Faces Difficult Decision Before Season Opener
Detroit Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff faces difficult lineup and rotation decisions ahead of the October 20 season opener against Boston.
Samsung Health Makes Sleep Coaching Easier to Start and Tailors Weekly Guidance
Sleep Coaching starts with three days of data and adjusts weekly, while Running Coach introduces advanced training and Scan Meal debuts in U.S. beta alongside personalized nutrition guidance
Samsung Health Makes Sleep Coaching Easier To Start and Tailors Weekly Guidance
Sleep Coaching starts with three days of data and adjusts weekly, while Running Coach intr
Sabres list Dahlin as day-to-day, acquire 2 players from Penguins
Buffalo Sabres coach Lindy Ruff says Dahlin won’t initially join the team for its upcoming three-game road trip.
Live with Coach Cal Radio Show Moves to Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux in Fayetteville will serve as the new home for the “Live with Coach Cal” radio show for the 2026-27 season.
Lane Kiffin Is The Most Overrated Coach in College Football
Lane Kiffin gets treated like an elite coach, but his lack of major championships and disappointing start at LSU raise serious questions about his reputation. At what point are we going to admit that Lane Kiffin might be the most overrated head coach in college football? For years, Kiffin has been treated like an offensive…
Jedd Fisch Provides Update on Demond Williams
“He's a day-to-day situation,” Jedd Fisch initially said of quarterback Demond Williams during his Monday afternoon press conference. “He's got a rib injury. So we will monitor that each day on where he's at… Just kind of waiting on imaging and then treatment and what that looks like.” The Washington head coach said that Elijah …
Ryan Silverfield must realize how badly he miscalculated
Ryan Silverfield's cowardly coaching remains the big story in Arkansas
Jérôme Boateng joins Trabzonspor coaching staff
Jérôme Boateng, the former centre-back who ended his playing career in September 2025, has announced on social media that he has joined the coaching staff at Trabzonspor."I feel very proud and happy...
Tony Dungy shares his account of leaving NBC Sports
Jamie Lamor Thompson/Shutterstock.com Dungy opens up about NBC’s decision to move on Tony Dungy’s 17-season run at NBC Sports ended in 2026. In a preview of his interview with Sage Steele, the former Indianapolis Colts coach said NBC wanted younger voices and a different lineup on Football Night in America. Dungy also discussed his Christian…
Everything Indiana’s Curt Cignetti said ahead of Ohio State
Indiana’s head coach addressed the offensive line, Jeremiah Smith, the running game and more on Monday.
Early Reports on Anton Harrison Hopeful, Jaguars Awaiting MRI Results
Anton Harrison’s injury against the Eagles on Sunday, but head coach Liam Coen offered a glimpse of hope regarding the Jaguars left tackle.
Niko Kovač extends contract as Borussia Dortmund coach to 2029
DORTMUND, Germany (AP) — Borussia Dortmund has handed coach Niko Kovač a contact extension through June 2029 as a reward for stabilizing the team.Dortmund announced the deal on Tuesday before the Champions League match at Bodø/Glimt — itself a measure of the Berlin-born Croatian coach’s success since taking over when Dortmund was 11th in the Bundesliga in January 2025.
Coach Kovac extends contract with Dortmund until 2029
Coach Niko Kovac has extended his contract with Borussia Dortmund until June 30, 2029, the Bundesliga club said in a statement on Tuesday. "Together, we've set a clear course for development and laid important foundations for the future.
Whittingham: Michigan football would be 'undefeated' without TO woes
"If we're plus in the turnover margin ... we're undefeated. I can tell you that without a doubt," Michigan football coach Kyle Whittingham said.
Whittingham: Michigan football would be 'undefeated' without TO woes
"If we're plus in the turnover margin ... we're undefeated. I can tell you that without a doubt," Michigan football coach Kyle Whittingham said.
Soule favored to start alongside Dybala and Malen vs Real
Gian Piero Gasperini won’t limit the quality of his players out of fear of Real Madrid. Los Blancos have a team of phenomenal players, but the Giallorossi coach has no intention of focusing solely o...
Biggest waste of money in your home gym may surprise you, fitness expert says
Fitness coach Jacob Zemer reveals the three home gym essentials — bands, dumbbells and a bench — that let you train every muscle group on a budget.
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Oct. 13, 2026, puzzle No. 750
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Progress Stopped: Titans’ Latest Defeat Offers Few Positives
For weeks, Tennessee Titans head coach Robert Saleh has preached progress, pointing to improvements in the team's execution and understanding of the system. However, the Titans' latest defeat, a 26-3 loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday, leaves little evidence that the team is moving in the right direction.
Cowboys Hire Ex-Head Coach to Help Struggling Christian Parker
The Dallas Cowboys made a major move on Monday, hiring Mike Pettine to help out Christian Parker and the team's struggling defense. The post Cowboys Hire Ex-Head Coach to Help Struggling Christian Parker appeared first on HEAVY.
Packers HC Addresses Micah Parsons Injury Concerns
The Green Bay Packers expected Micah Parsons to be back by Week 6 before the season started. However, as the team approaches Week 6 and Parsons is not practicing, there are questions about whether he had a setback. Head coach Matt LaFleur made it clear that Parsons did not have a setback. However, he said […] The post Packers HC Addresses Micah Parsons Injury Concerns appeared first on HEAVY.
Steelers HC promises Jaylen Warren will remain feature running back
Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy made it clear that Jaylen Warren will remain the feature back, even with Rico Dowdle returns from injury.
Steelers' Mike McCarthy has a huge offensive decision to make
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy won't have an easy decision to make very soon.
Pettine returns to NFL coaching with the Dallas Cowboys
Less than a year after retiring, Doylestown's Mike Pettine returns to NFL coaching with the Dallas Cowboys
Why Sabres Pulled Colten Ellis From Goalie Start Vs. Panthers
The Buffalo Sabres have three players they trust as their goalie. Colten Ellis might be third in the pecking order behind Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and Alex Lyon (currently injured), but Ellis still gets opportunities from head coach Lindy Ruff, too. The latest opportunity for Ellis came on Monday afternoon. The Sabres were taking on the Florida […] The post Why Sabres Pulled Colten Ellis From Goalie Start Vs. Panthers appeared first on HEAVY.
NBC’s Mike Tomlin refuses to say Derrick Henry’s name
When it comes to Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry, Mike Tomlin acts like he’s in a video game that didn’t get the rights to use his likeness. The NBC Sports NFL analyst and former Pittsburgh Steelers coach was tasked with discussing Henry and the Ravens during their Sunday Night Football showdown with the Atlanta…
KOC Excited About Kyler Murray, Vikings Offense
Kevin O'Connell was asked about Kyler Murray on Monday. Clearly, the Minnesota Vikings head coach thinks the offense is only getting started.
Dan Quinn Knows Commanders Clock Management Issues "Can't Happen"
Head coach Dan Quinn explains what went wrong in the Washington Commanders' tie against the New York Giants
Basketball Schools Kentucky And UCLA Are Thriving In Football
UCLA (5-0) is No. 12 in the AP poll, while Kentucky (5-1) is No. 15. UCLA's Bob Chesney and Kentucky's Will Stein are each in their first seasons as coaches.
Mavs' Dusty May Scouts 'Artist' Kyrie Irving Debut
Kyrie Irving made his return from over a year and a half sidelined with injury. He immediately made an impression on his new head coach.
College volleyball rankings after Week 7: Updated AVCA Coaches Poll
Here's the latest AVCA Coaches Poll as the women's volleyball regular season reached mid-October. Only one team remains undefeated in the top 25.
Orlando Magic's Sean Sweeney Gets Honest After Loss to Cavs
Orlando Magic coach Sean Sweeney detailed what went wrong for his team in a 119-105 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday.
Wisconsin's Luke Fickell provides updates for Abu Sama, Austin Kawecki
During his weekly press conference Oct. 12, Wisconsin football coach Luke Fickell shared injury updates on two offensive starters.
Patriots Open Door to A.J. Brown Practice Return This Week
The New England Patriots may be getting closer to seeing their biggest offseason addition back on the field.Head coach Mike Vrabel provided a great update on A.J. Brown on Monday, one day after New England rolled past the Las Vegas Raiders without its star wide receiver.MassLive’s Mark Daniels reported Monday that Vrabel said “there’s a […] The post Patriots Open Door to A.J. Brown Practice Return This Week appeared first on HEAVY.
The Tomlin Effect? NFL Analysts More Blunt Than Ever
Rex Ryan is the latest ex-coach to break from the fraternity.
Yankees coach fired at midseason gets second chance in MLB
Dillon Lawson is back as a uniformed coach in MLB. Three years after he was fired by the New York Yankees in the middle of the 2023 season, falling on the sword for the underwhelming performances of the team, Lawson…
WOWT celebrates Clayton Collier’s national Murrow Award
First Alert 6 is celebrating Sports Director Clayton Collier as he brings home a national Edward R. Murrow Award for a sports feature on an Omaha who has found success as a hitting coach despite being legally blind.
Florida football coach Jon Sumrall defends Gators fans booing team
Florida head coach Jon Sumrall didn't mind the boos from fans on Saturday.
Patriots' Mike Vrabel breaks silence on A.J. Brown return question
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel isn't ruling out an A.J. Brown return this week.
The Good, The Bad and The Ugly vs. Kentucky
Sloppy play, coaching, and officiating throughout LSUs loss to Kentucky
Flo Health and Google Health Join Forces to Put Women's Health at the Center of Wearable Tracking and Personalized Coaching
/PRNewswire/ -- Flo Health, the #1 women's health platform worldwide, announces today a multi-year strategic partnership with Google Health to create a more...
Most overrated/underrated teams in Week 6 coaches poll
Week 6 of college football shook up the rankings. See which teams are overrated and underrated after the chaos.
Bills DT Oliver, WR Palmer ruled out for Monday Night Football
According to head coach Joe Brady, Palmer hurt his shoulder in practice and Oliver did not practice this week because of a knee injury.
Osasuna rocked: Ramis sacked, and Arrasate returns!
Club Atlético Osasuna has officially announced the dismissal of Luis Miguel Ramis as first-team head coach. The decision was approved by the board after reviewing the club’s performances at the sta...
Seedorf back in football as Corinthians head coach
Brazilian club Corinthians appoint Clarence Seedorf as their head coach, with the former Netherlands midfielder taking on his first coaching role since 2019.
Fabregas: “This was our best performance since I’m here.”
Cesc Fabregas spoke to Dazn after the 0-0 draw against Roma. The Como coach commented on the match: “We are two attacking, proactive teams. A 0-0 is unusual; the red card changed the game. To play a...
Harbaugh’s Yard-Grab Gamble Backfires In Overtime Tie
Giants coach John Harbaugh admits he wanted more yards before a field goal in overtime. The plan failed as Cam Skattebo fumbled, costing the team a win.
Cash Taiese impressed with Utah’s offense following Kansas visit
The American Fork standout witnessed the Utes' creative two-quarterback system firsthand, praising the electric Rice-Eccles atmosphere and coaching staff as Utah solidifies its status for local recruits.
Detroit Lions lose Devin White, Tom Kennedy to injuries
Lions coach Dan Campbell said LB Devin White likely needs surgery to repair his broken forearm.
The science, instinct and hard work behind Roosters’ success
Enter your email address to get each Tribune edition sent to your inbox Subscribe There’s a fair bit of unseen work that goes into winning an NRL premiership, dating back many months - just ask Simon Jones. The Sydney Roosters Head of Performance, who hails from Southland, has been in the thick of it. He played a lead role in guiding the 2026 champions through a marathon campaign that ended with a grand final win over the Newcastle Knights. The Roosters had to navigate the lengthy round-robin competition, including the pre-season, before playing through all four weeks of the finals series. It was a demanding stretch that tested the players and the staff responsible for keeping them on the field. “It is a hell of a beast, mate, to be honest,” Jones told The Roar Podcast. “There’s such a great group of staff there that know what they’re doing, and the boys are pretty professional.” Jones believed the Roosters managed the physical demands well, pointing to the health of the squad throughout the campaign and the decision to rest a significant portion of the playing group in the final round of the regular season. That call, made by head coach Trent Robinson and his coaching staff, proved valuable as the Roosters entered the finals with some energy in reserve. “We did finish the season physically where we needed to be, and we’d sort of had a pretty healthy squad all year,” Jones said. “To the team that do that, mate, mission accomplished, really.” It is the sort of work that often goes unnoticed when the spotlight falls on the players scoring tries and making match-winning plays, but Jones knows the cumulative effect of those decisions can be significant over a long season. After a win over Penrith had helped establish them as premiership favourites, losses to the Wests Tigers and Dolphins were followed by a defeat to the Panthers in the opening week of the finals. Rather than panic, the club refocused to position itself to challenge for the title. “The Tigers’ performance was probably the only one where you’re really quite disappointed because it’s hard to get to the top of the competition,” Jones told The Roar Podcast. “We had proof that we could; we knew what we needed to do. We just had to get back to that.” For Jones, the answer was not necessarily a radical change to the programme. It was about executing the basics consistently, both on the field and in preparation. “We just do the basics better than anybody else,” he said. “Whether that is actually the way you play the game or how you’re preparing, it’s just be really consistent, do the basics really, really well.” Like many professional sports teams, the Roosters are entrenched in sports science and performance data. The club has access to a range of information, including players’ sleep, GPS metrics and neuromuscular scores, helping staff assess how individuals are coping with training and competition. “We are very science-backed, and some people would say data-driven, but it’s people first,” he said. “The reason you collect all this data is to try and be the best for that person.” Jones said the club was also prepared to reconsider testing methods if they were not generating useful discussions or helping staff make better decisions. In an environment where technology is continually evolving, he believes experience and gut instinct remain important. “The data is no good unless you have conversations,” he said. “When you strip it right back, mate, trust the gut still and obviously, you know, just doing the basics really, really well.” The return of halfback Sam Walker provided a further example of the importance of individual determination and the work of the club’s medical team. Walker underwent ankle surgery late in the regular season, with his premiership campaign appearing in doubt. However, he was determined to return for the preliminary final. Jones said Walker was back at the training ground three days after surgery, walking freely enough to surprise those around him. While the surgeon’s work was crucial, Jones credited the halfback’s mindset as a major factor in the remarkable turnaround. “He was quite clear with Robbo after he got the surgery that he was going to make it back for the prelim finals,” Jones said. The Roosters’ performance programme also sits within a wider club culture that Jones believes is central to their success. Each season, players develop their own team mantra through a lengthy process facilitated by Robinson. It provides principles that the squad can connect to its actions on the field. Rather than simply carrying over the previous year’s wording after a successful campaign, the club repeats the process because the players’ ownership of it is what gives it meaning. “When it’s led, player-owned and player-led, mate, it’s really powerful,” Jones said. Get more from Logan Savory in the Substack app Available for iOS and Android Get the app Jones joined the Roosters in 2024 and said the environment had evolved as experienced players departed and younger members of the squad took on greater responsibility. Maintaining continuity in the club’s culture and preparation had helped the group navigate those changes. The premiership was a significant achievement for Jones, who acknowledged how difficult it was to win the NRL’s ultimate prize. However, he is already looking at how the performance programme can improve. “There’s still things within my role and things that I’d like to help improve at the club,” he said. For Jones and his team, the challenge now is to review the season, refine their systems and prepare for another campaign. The celebrations may have followed a memorable title win, but the work behind the scenes never really stops. The Southland Tribune is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe
Jeff Blashill Reveals Connor Bedard Could Play Tuesday vs Penguins
Connor Bedard practiced in full contact Sunday. Coach Jeff Blashill won't rule out a Tuesday debut. Get the latest on the Blackhawks star's recovery.
Bears HC Ben Johnson Called Out After Packers Embarrassment
The Chicago Bears and head coach Ben Johnson got a reality check at the hands of the rival Green Bay Packers. The post Bears HC Ben Johnson Called Out After Packers Embarrassment appeared first on HEAVY.
Lifespan vs. Healthspan
Longevity coaching has entered the public consciousness. Can a longevity coach help you live better, longer?
Grading Arkansas football's 24-17 loss to Tennessee
Coach Ryan Silverfield's fourth quarter decisions have come under the spotlight by media and Arkansas fans.
Hurricanes @ Flyers: Preview and Game Thread
The Carolina Hurricanes bring their 4-1-1 record, which puts them in first place in the Metropolitan Division, to Philadelphia, (0-4-2) where the Flyers have yet to win a game this season. They are currently last in the division. It is funny how quickly things can change in the NHL. Last season, coach Rick Tocchet was […]
UNC in the Mix for 3-Five Star Recruits
The 2026-27 college basketball season is less than a month from getting underway. While college programs are looking forward to getting on the court for real, coaching staffs are looking to add for the future. Here is a look at the latest recruiting news. UNC in the Mix for 3 Five-Star Recruits After getting off …
🚨Confirmed XIs: City and Liverpool in a fiery clash
Anfield takes center stage this Sunday, October 11, as it hosts the standout clash of Premier League Matchday 6 between Liverpool and Manchester City.The Reds, under head coach Andoni Iraola, remain u...
Chicago Bears to Honor Mike Ditka With Special Helmet Sticker
The Chicago Bears will honor legendary coach Mike Ditka with a special No. 89 helmet sticker against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.
What Wake Forest Said After the NC State Win
Wake Forest got one of those wins Saturday that will get notated through the remaining weeks of the season as an important win. Coaches will tell you they are all important. Everyone else will acknowledge that there are some games that stand out on the schedule more than others. North Carolina State had beaten Wake …