In the world of college football, few leaders can match the unique style of BYU's Kalani Sitake. But what's the secret behind his success? It's a story that will make you rethink leadership and the power of human connection.
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Provo, Utah: Where Joy and Leadership Collide
Step into Kalani Sitake's world, and you'll find a man who's not just a coach but a father figure and a friend. Show him a picture of your toddler, and his eyes light up with genuine delight.
As I sat down with Sitake in a corner office within BYU's football facility, I witnessed his infectious enthusiasm firsthand. When I shared a photo of my 3-year-old son, Leo, his response was pure joy: "Dude! That's the cutest kid ever!"
But our interview took an unexpected turn as Sitake, a father himself, wanted to see more. He asked about a recent drive to capture the perfect Instagram-worthy shot, and I showed him Leo's beaming smile amidst the vibrant autumn leaves.
"That hair! You can't cut it!" he exclaimed, and I couldn't help but agree. In that moment, I forgot that Sitake, now 50, was also a dad, sharing similar experiences.
He eagerly pulled out his iPhone, flipping through photos of his own 3-year-old daughter, Sylvia. Her smile, just like Leo's, lit up the screen.
For a few precious minutes, the head coach of an undefeated AP Top 25 team with College Football Playoff dreams put aside the upcoming rivalry game against Utah. Instead, he embraced the joy of learning about others, a skill he's honed to perfection.
Unlocking the Sitake Leadership Code
I traveled to Provo to uncover Sitake's leadership secrets and the unique structure of his team meetings. As the first Tongan
