Athletics Leadership Participates in Staff Development Session Focused on Culture and Communication
MCKENZIE, Tenn. - Recently, Bethel University's athletics leadership and head coaches participated in a staff development training session hosted by Derek Horne centered on the theme, "Culture and Communication." The session was designed to provide practical instruction and leadership strategies to strengthen communication, team dynamics, and overall athletic performance.
The professional development activity encouraged coaches and athletics staff to continue growing as leaders while enhancing the experience and success of student-athletes. According to VP Horne, "We are lifelong learners, and it's important to ensure we acquire the tools and skills that can help in our efforts to produce successful teams and well-rounded student-athletes."
The training session was facilitated by Armand Hebert III, owner of Herbert Consulting and Couples Blueprint. His organizations partner with individuals and organizations to strengthen leadership, improve communication, and build high-performing teams.
Mr. Hebert's presentation focused on the use of the DISC Assessment Profile, a behavioral assessment tool designed to help individuals better understand communication styles, workplace interactions, and collaboration. The DISC framework identifies four primary behavioral styles and provides insights into how individuals can communicate more effectively and work together successfully.
Throughout the session, coaches and athletics leaders explored how emotional intelligence and adaptive communication can positively influence team culture and athlete development. Mr. Hebert emphasized the importance of understanding how athletes respond differently to coaching, pressure, and motivation.
"Emotional intelligence is a coach's edge—and DISC helps you coach it: understand what drives each athlete, recognize how they respond under pressure, and choose words that actually land," said Hebert. "When leaders stay composed and adapt their style, teams stay connected, trust deepens, and performance rises."
The session reflects an ongoing commitment to leadership development, effective communication, and fostering a positive culture within athletics programs. By investing in continued staff training, athletics leadership aims to strengthen collaboration among coaches and create an environment that supports both competitive success and the holistic growth of student-athletes.
About Herbert Consulting
Hebert Consulting is a leadership development and organizational consulting firm founded by Armand J. Hebert III and based in McKenzie. Through Hebert Consulting and Couples Blueprint, Armand partners with organizations, educational institutions, athletic programs, and individuals to strengthen leadership effectiveness, improve communication, and develop high-performing teams.
Armand's expertise is supported by certifications in DISC, Harvard Motivator, Hartman Values, leadership facilitation, and professional coaching. In addition to his consulting work, he remains actively engaged in community and leadership development initiatives throughout Tennessee and serves as a behavioral styles and leadership development coach with Bethel University women's soccer program.