The Chief Dog Podcast

From Athletics to Finance: Brian Fucile

Jack and Matt reunite with their Springfield College teammate, Brian Fucile. Brian shares his journey from growing up in Vermont to attending Springfield College, where significant influences from his high school coach, Hubert Wagner, and playing alongside his brother, Vinny, shaped his path. They reminisce about their college lacrosse days, influential mentors, and the strong relationships formed at Springfield. Brian discusses his post-college journey, including stints in teaching, coaching, and various sales roles, before finding his calling as a financial advisor at Edward Jones. The discussion highlights the importance of hard work, adaptability, and treating others well, drawing from their shared experiences and the humanics philosophy instilled in them during their time at Springfield College.
 
Topics
00:26 Catching Up with the Hosts
00:42 Introducing Brian Fucile
01:08 Brian's Journey to Springfield College
03:34 Memorable Moments and Influences
05:36 Teaching and Coaching Career
10:34 Transition to Finance
15:41 Lifelong Relationships and Reunions
20:17 Memories of Mass Ave Parties
21:55 Building Bonds Through Athletics
22:58 High School Football Challenges
24:38 Lessons from Coach Wagner
28:20 Career Advice for Springfield Students
31:10 The Importance of Work Ethic
32:10 Treating Others Well
32:37 Celebrating Life and Legacy
40:16 Adapting and Succeeding in Lacrosse
42:46 Final Thoughts and Reflections

A Legacy in Lacrosse: Keith Bugbee

The guest is Keith Bugbee, a lacrosse coaching legend from Springfield College, who is retiring after a remarkable 42-year career. Bugbee shares insights into his career achievements, including two national championship games and multiple NCAA tournament appearances. He discusses the significance of relationships with players and colleagues, the evolution of Springfield College, and how the student athletes have changed over the years. Bugbee also delves into his 'Show Up' initiative and the impact of the yellow helmet tradition inspired by his daughter Lindsey. The discussion concludes with Bugbee’s gratitude to his players, the importance of maintaining team culture, and his excitement for his final year coaching.
 
Topics
00:00 Introduction and Winter Activities
00:52 Welcoming Coach Keith Bugbee
01:15 Reflecting on a Legendary Career
02:31 The Springfield College Experience
04:19 Changes Over the Years
07:19 Retirement and Future Plans
16:14 Mentoring the Next Generation
18:18 The Springfield Mafia
21:01 Show Up Initiative
22:28 The Yellow Helmet Tradition
23:26 Spreading the Yellow Helmet Culture
25:45 Honoring Coach with the Bugbee Pavilion
27:34 Team Prospects and Practices
31:26 Impact of COVID on College Sports
35:44 Division 3 Lacrosse and New Regulations
37:56 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Dr. Mary-Beth Cooper, President of Springfield College

Jack and Matt chat with Dr. Mary Beth Cooper, President of Springfield College. Dr. Cooper shares her journey to Springfield, her involvement with the YMCA, and her motivations for joining the college. She discusses the impacts of the pandemic on education, the evolution of Springfield College’s programs, and the institution's steadfast mission. The conversation also covers the significance of service projects, industry changes brought by AI, NIL legislation, and the teacher-coach model unique to Springfield College. Dr. Cooper highlights the successes in retaining top faculty and coaches, the ongoing campus improvements, and the strong community bond fostered by the college’s spirit, mind, and body philosophy. The episode concludes with thoughts on future projects and the unique experiences that Springfield College offers its students.
Topics
00:55 Welcoming Dr. Mary-Beth Cooper
02:57 Springfield College's Adaptation to Modern Education
05:55 The Humanics Philosophy at Springfield College
15:01 The Teacher-Coach Model at Springfield College
18:22 Keith Bugbee's Legacy and Future Plans
23:36 Campus Development Projects
24:53 Collaborations and Field Projects
25:14 Bugbee Pavilion Fundraiser Success
26:28 Challenges with Gulick Residence Hall
27:49 Student Union and Campus Life
30:26 NIL and NCAA Insights
32:21 Impact of Transfer Portal
32:58 Student Athletes as Employees Debate
39:28 Intramural and Club Sports
42:18 Extracurricular Activities at Springfield College
44:56 Memories and Reflections
49:57 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Welcome to the Chief Dog Podcast

In this inaugural episode of the Chief Dog Podcast, hosts Jack Piatelli and Matt Hogan discuss their time at Springfield College, sharing insights and personal stories. They delve into their transition from players to coaches, highlighting key experiences that shaped their careers, including interactions with notable coaches and the challenges of navigating the recruiting process. Jack and Matt also reflect on the importance of relationships, mentorship, and the lessons learned from both high school and college coaching. Finally, they touch on their venture into the lacrosse club business, emphasizing the significance of taking risks, the dedication to providing a great experience, and the impact of their Springfield connections.
 
Topics
 
00:32 Hosts' Personal College Experiences
01:50 Journey into Coaching
03:23 The Importance of Networking and Mentorship
04:39 Early Career Challenges and Lessons
07:13 Recruitment and College Decisions
13:11 First Encounters with Lacrosse
17:48 Coaching Memories and Relationships
18:34 Impact of College Coaching
21:16 Teaching and Coaching Philosophy
26:38 Recruiting Insights and Experiences
31:25 Transition to Business