Jamy Bechler to Deliver Keynote on Success is a Choice at 2026 NHSACA National Conference

On June 29, 2026, the National High School Athletic Coaches Association National Conference will feature one of the nation’s most dynamic voices in leadership and culture development. Jamy Bechler, author, speaker, former basketball coach, athletic director, and host of the highly regarded Success is a Choice podcast, will deliver a keynote that promises to inspire coaches across all sports and stages of their careers.

From Courtside to the Conference Stage

Bechler’s journey has taken him from the hardwood to the head of the athletic department, from college basketball sidelines to corporate leadership seminars. As a college basketball coach, he became his program’s all-time winningest leader, earning national recognition with the NAIA Champions of Character Award in 2014. Later, as athletic director at Indiana’s Marion High School, he helped guide the boys’ basketball program to its record-setting eighth state championship while also transforming the school’s athletic culture, revamping leadership development, boosting fundraising, and spearheading facility upgrades.

But Jamy’s influence has never been limited to the scoreboard. His calling has always been larger: equipping athletes, coaches, and leaders with the tools to reach their full potential. That calling has now taken him to boardrooms, locker rooms, and stages around the country.

The Message: Success is a Choice

At the NHSACA Conference, Bechler will share a message rooted in his keynote theme: “Success is a Choice.” This is not just the name of his popular podcast—it’s a philosophy. For Jamy, success doesn’t happen by chance, luck, or circumstance. It comes from daily decisions, intentional actions, and the culture we create.

His keynote will challenge coaches to reflect on the environments they build for their athletes and themselves. He’ll ask questions that go beyond strategy and game plans:

• Are we modeling the discipline and commitment we ask of our players?
• Are we creating cultures that empower athletes to lead and serve?
• Are we defining success only by wins and losses—or by the lives we impact?

For Jamy, the scoreboard is just one measure of success. The ultimate test is how we prepare young people for the game of life.

Why Coaches Need This Message Now

In an era where coaches face increasing pressure—from performance metrics to social expectations, Bechler’s message is a timely reminder of what truly matters. His words bridge the gap between sports and life, giving coaches practical tools and the inspiration to return home with renewed clarity and purpose.

His books, including The Leadership Playbook, Building Champions, and The Bus Trip, have become staples for leaders in athletics and business alike. And his work as a John Maxwell-certified leadership coach ensures that his keynote won’t just inspire, it will provide actionable strategies coaches can implement immediately.

Looking Ahead to Iowa

We could not be more excited to welcome Jamy Bechler to our stage. His keynote on Success is a Choice will remind every coach in attendance why they do what they do, and how intentional leadership can change the trajectory of lives forever.

When the lights dim on June 29th in Iowa, and Jamy Bechler steps forward to share his story, our members won’t just hear about leadership, they’ll experience a call to action that will ripple across locker rooms, communities, and programs nationwide.

Because in the end, Jamy is right: Success is a Choice.