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Ivan Joseph Highlight
The doctoral degree isn’t about the job or the outcome—it’s about the process. Don’t look for the job; look for the love.
About Ivan
- Born in Guyana, a small country in South America, but grew up in Toronto, Canada, where he was a nationally ranked high school track and field athlete.
- When his family first immigrated to Canada, a farmer took them in so his father could work—says this experience shaped who he is today and taught him “to not rest until the job is done.”
- He was kicked out of his university in Canada—says he was immature, never went to class, and failed to develop any meaningful relationships to help him succeed.
- Inspired by his work as a volunteer soccer coach, he came to the U.S. to finish college with a major in physical education.
- As a soccer coach, he has always been driven to win and succeed—became interested in the mental powers of motivation, self-confidence, and resilience.
- Decided to pursue his doctorate in sports psychology and used his team as “guinea pigs” for researching his techniques, until he started noticing that it was working and his team was improving.
- He has been awarded the 2006 NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) National Coach of the Year and is a three-time Coach of the Year in the Heart of America Athletic Conference.
- Currently serves as the director of athletics for Ryerson University, overseeing 12 varsity teams, 20 multi-tiered intramural leagues, and several sports clubs.
