sAtiba Bradley’s journey to becoming the first Black head coach at Missouri Southern is a story of dedication, leadership, and excellence. In 2021, Bradley broke new ground by not only leading the football program but also becoming the first graduate of the university to take on such a pivotal role. He now stands as a beacon of inclusion, promoting diversity both on and off the field.
Breaking Barriers as the First Black Head Coach at Missouri Southern
Bradley’s appointment as head coach at Missouri Southern marked a significant moment in the university’s history. As the first Black head coach, he carries the pride of his roots and the weight of breaking barriers in an often underrepresented space. Having grown up in Joplin, Missouri, Bradley learned early on the importance of judging people by their character rather than their race.
“I’m a big believer in that American history includes a lot of history. It’s not just white history, Black history, Irish—we’re the melting pot,” he explained. Bradley is committed to reflecting this inclusive philosophy within his team and the larger community.
Championing Inclusion and Respect in the Locker Room
Bradley has used his position to foster a culture of respect and unity among his players. With athletes from various backgrounds, his locker room is a microcosm of the diverse world outside. “When we get in the locker room, we’ve got every race, creed, nationality, religion represented. And that’s the last thing we argue about,” said Bradley. His approach to leadership emphasizes the power of teamwork and mutual respect, with the goal of building a cohesive and successful team.
A Passion for Baking: A Sweet Side to Leadership
In addition to his coaching expertise, Bradley’s personal life reflects another layer of talent—his love for baking. “One, I love math—and then two, I actually—I am a really good baker,” he said with a smile. His skills in the kitchen, which he learned from his father, are another way he connects with others and builds relationships. Whether on the field or in the kitchen, Bradley’s ability to bring people together shines through.
Bradley’s love for baking has also been a family tradition, with his kids fondly remembering their grandfather’s cakes. “The kids will tell you Grandpa’s cakes are better. I will tell you they do that, because they respect their elders,” Bradley shared. His approach to life, both in coaching and baking, is all about respect, teamwork, and excellence.
Community Involvement and Leadership Beyond the Field
As a leader, Bradley is not just about coaching football; he is deeply committed to giving back to his community. He and his team regularly volunteer for local functions, helping with everything from community events to support for those in need. “You name it, we do it,” Bradley said, showcasing his dedication to making a difference in Joplin.
Bradley’s leadership extends far beyond the football field, embodying values of community service, respect, and a commitment to uplifting others.
Bradley’s Message for the Future: Embrace Disagreement, Focus on Respect
Finally, Bradley offers an important perspective on how society can move forward: “You hear it all the time that people are afraid to disagree, and I think that that concept is wrong. It’s when your disagreeing turns to hate. It’s when you judge the book by the cover before you open it up,” he stated. Bradley’s message encourages openness and respect, even in moments of disagreement, and calls for a deeper understanding of each other.
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