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Presentation Proposal - NACADA Annual Conference
Presentation Info and Handouts
  Code=183
Conference Year: 2026
Session #: ()
Title: Carrying the Calf: Applying Progressive Overload Theory to Higher Education Coaching
Lead Presenter: Bill Myers
Date: December 31, 1969    Time: 6:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Room:
Abstract: How do you help a student grow without overwhelming them? Ancient Greece might have the answer. This presentation draws on the story of Milo of Croton, the wrestler who gained strength by lifting a calf each day until it became a bull, using it as a metaphor for student development in higher education. Rooted in the principle of progressive overload, the session connects resistance training concepts to coaching practices that help students thrive when challenges increase gradually and intentionally. Through real student examples, participants will see how incremental academic, personal, social, and career goals mirror strength building cycles. The presentation also reframes setbacks-poor exam grades, anxiety, social conflict, internship rejection-as 'training data' that guide adaptation rather than discourage persistence, offering practical strategies coaches can apply immediately.
Handouts
Note: Handouts (if offered for this session) are accessible via the conference app.
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