EUGENE, Ore. — The Oregon Ducks, currently ranked second in the nation, are embracing a unique approach to goal setting as they aim for a national championship this season. This method, known as the Harada Method, was notably utilized by baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani during his formative years, helping him visualize and achieve his dreams in Major League Baseball.
The Harada Method, developed by Japanese track coach Takashi Harada, emphasizes setting one overarching goal supported by eight key pillars and actionable steps beneath each. This structured approach was introduced to the Ducks by head coach Dan Lanning during a team retreat over the summer, aiming to provide players with a clear framework for their aspirations.
“It just lays out our format of things that we want to do this year,” said quarterback Dante Moore, who is returning as the Ducks' starter after deciding against entering the NFL draft. “Coach Lanning has always been a big proponent of writing things out and speaking them into existence. This year, I’ve adopted that mindset as well.”
Oregon is entering the season with high expectations after reaching the College Football Playoff in the last two years, although they fell short of capturing the national title. In the previous season, the Ducks posted an impressive 13-2 record, with both defeats coming against the eventual national champions, Indiana. This year marks a historic moment for the program as they hold the highest preseason ranking in their history.
“The Harada method definitely helps you hone in on little goals before getting to that big goal,” receiver Evan Stewart stated. “If you can’t accomplish those smaller objectives, it’s unrealistic to expect to reach the larger goal. That’s been our primary focus.”
Oregon's offense is loaded with talent, led by Moore, who threw for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns last season. Stewart, who missed the previous season due to a torn patellar tendon, is set to return alongside standout receiver Dakorian Moore. The Ducks also boast a formidable defensive line, featuring returning players Matayo Uiagalelei, Bear Alexander, and A’Mauri Washington, all of whom opted to stay in college instead of entering the NFL draft.
Alexander shared his personal goals using the Harada Method on social media, showcasing his central aim of becoming a first-round draft pick, supported by pillars such as faith, discipline, character, and health. He also included actionable steps like “being kind” and “giving back” under the character pillar.
Coach Lanning, along with mental performance consultant Cory Shaffer, had been exploring the Harada Method even before it was introduced to the players. The method, while rooted in sports, has also found applications in business, emphasizing discipline and self-reliance.
“Cory and I were studying this method before we even shared it with the team,” Lanning explained. “It started with our leadership group during our retreat, where we built out vision boards. Some players have also adopted this approach individually.”
Moore expressed admiration for Ohtani, stating, “Ohtani is probably going to be the greatest baseball player of all time. We’re just trying to learn from the greats and ensure we become that team this year.”
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