Darren Burgess – High Performance Manager, Adelaide Crows Football Club, AFL

Send us Fan MailDarren Burgess (Burgo) is one of the most renowned and decorated high performance managers in the world. He has led the performance of such teams as Melbourne Demons, Port Adelaide Power and Adelaide Crows (AFL), as well as Liverpool FC and Arsenal FC (EPL). In addition, Burgo has successfully guided the Australian national football team (Socceroos) to a world cup qualification and is one of few who have been involved in the worlds biggest sporting event, the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. This is a rare long form conversation with Burgo like you have never heard him before, where we reflect on his illustrious career, overcoming dark times, the lessons he’s learnt, what motivates him, his influences and his career successes, which in turn have made him one of the most respected and sought after practitioners in high performance sport. Highlights from the episode…How family is a huge influence on both his motivation to get into sport and his approach to it. Burgo shares a story that only his closets mates know on how he navigated being rejected multiple times and only securing his first full time role at the age of 30.  One of the most strangest roles his held that he eventually was fired from. The fallacy of work life balance in sport. What Burgo did to separate himself from others in the industry which increased both his knowledge and hireability. After a stint with Paramatta Power (NSL), Burgo shares how a “soccer guy” secured the head S&C role with Port Adelaide Power (AFL).Burgo shares the unique interview he had with Mark (Choco) Williams that led to him being chosen for the role. What invaluable practical skills Burgo learnt during his time at Paramatta Power that set him up for success.How Burgo moved from AFL to the Socceroos and the proud moment he shared with his Dad.The difference in S&C approach when working for a club vs. national team.After joining one of the biggest clubs in the world with Liverpool FC how he experience imposter syndrome and the ways he combated it to ensure he excelled at his role. What Burgo specifically does to tailor a program for individual and team success.Why Burgo choose to leave Liverpool and return back to his old club Port Power, despite receiving more lucrative offers elsewhere. What motivates Burgo?Burgo shares how he secured the role with Arsenal FC  and how he managed the technical and administration aspects as Director of High Performance. Burgo gets candid and reflects on his departure from Arsenal during one of he’s most challenging times in his career. A nuance idea of how to focus on enjoying the process instead of the outcome. Finally Burgo shares his high performance philosophy.People mentioned: Andrew Russell: https://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/141951/blues-land-highly-regarded-russellMark (Choco) Williams: https://www.melbournefc.com.au/teams/afl/coaches/mark-williamsDarren Burgess contact details:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-burgess-a1580628/Wikipedia: X: https://twitter.com/darrenburgess25Host: Luis ResaContact me on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luis-resa-a975196b/Email: [email protected] for listening and please leave a review. If you would like more information on anything mentioned in this episode simply send me an email.