Coach Spencer Danielson embodies the essence of authentic leadership in collegiate athletics. As the head coach of the Boise State football team, Danielson has created a culture that transcends the scoreboard, focusing instead on developing young men into champions both on and off the field.
In a recent conversation, Danielson shared insights into his leadership philosophy that has propelled Boise State to new heights, including taking the Broncos to the inaugural football playoffs this year. At the core of his approach is an unwavering commitment to his faith, family, and the holistic development of his players.
“I believe practice is a common thing. Meetings are a common thing. Recruiting is a common thing. What I mean by that is everybody’s doing it. We’re going to do it in an uncommon way,” Danielson explained. This philosophy, which he describes as “build different,” focuses on building champions by doing common things in uncommon ways. It’s about choosing value over currency in a collegiate athletic landscape increasingly dominated by NIL deals and the transfer portal.
Danielson doesn’t shy away from discussing his faith, openly acknowledging that his relationship with Jesus forms his foundation as a leader. However, he emphasizes that his program welcomes and embraces players of all backgrounds and beliefs. “We have Christians on our team. We have Muslims on our team. We have LDS players on our team. We have people on our team that want nothing to do with religion at this point in their life,” he shared, “and all are welcome, all are loved, all are built into.”
This inclusive approach extends to his recruiting philosophy. Rather than focusing solely on athletic ability or potential NIL opportunities, Danielson prioritizes character development and long-term success. “I tell them, when my head hits the pillow, I’m thinking about your son,” he said, describing his conversations with recruits’ families. “I’m thinking about exactly who your son is, what makes him tick… and football is the last part.”
The success of this approach is evident in the story of Ashton Jentry, a standout player who, despite numerous opportunities to leave for potentially more lucrative situations, chose to stay at Boise State to “leave a legacy.” Danielson describes Jentry as not just a talented player but a leader whose work ethic inspired the entire team. “When your best players are your hardest workers, you always have a shot,” he remarked.
As college athletics continues to evolve with the transfer portal and NIL deals creating a more transactional environment, Danielson and Boise State are intentionally moving in the opposite direction. “Where maybe other people are going more transactional, we’re focused on transformation,” he stated. This commitment to development over dollars has created a program where players want to stay not just for financial opportunities but for the growth they experience as individuals.
Looking ahead to next season, Danielson expressed excitement about the team’s prospects, highlighting returning players who will step into leadership roles. His focus remains on the process rather than outcomes, emphasizing daily improvement and consistent habits. This approach, coupled with the support of what he describes as the second-to-none Bronco Nation, positions Boise State for continued success.
Perhaps most telling is Danielson’s perspective on his ultimate measure of success: “I truly believe I get judged on what happens 12 nights a year, but what I really am going to be judged by, in my opinion, is how these young men are 20 years from now.” This long-view approach to coaching, focusing on life beyond football, exemplifies why Coach Spencer Danielson has become not just a successful coach but a transformative leader in collegiate athletics.
