Before you start your spring sports season try to put yourself in your coach's shoes.
What would it be like to have to schedule practices, organize game plans, and facilitate team meetings, tournaments and end of season events? Well, it takes a lot of hard work and effort. But what's most difficult is keeping teams organized and focused.
So as we gear up for the spring sports season, we want to give some perspective on how and why coaches work so hard to ensure you're getting more out of sports.
Check out the Top 10 Coaching Philosophies from youth sports coaches around the nation listed below. We hope these coaching values help you understand just how much thought your coach, manager, trainer or other sports supporter puts in to helping you enjoy a fun and worthwhile sports season.
1. Teach (and re-teach) the fundamentals at all levels. Trick plays and sets don't win games – proper execution of the fundamentals during those plays will make all the difference. – Who doesn't hear, "let's get back to the basics" during practice?
2. Try to remember that it's only a game. And, that regardless of the final score, as long as your players tried their best, they will ALWAYS be winners. – Even after a loss, if you met your personal goal, that's something to celebrate.
3. Keep everything as simple as possible. Simplicity builds confidence, and confidence leads to more skilled playing.– No one wants to feel confused or unsure!
4. Establish team and individual goals. And make sure they're "specific, measurable, achievable, reasonable and timely". – Just like in school!
5. Before you can become a team, you must become friends. There is no room on a team for kids that don't like each other or who don't treat each other with respect. – R-E-S-P-E-C-T, everyone deserves it!
6. Realize that players are smarter than you might give them credit for. Involve them in strategy discussions. Help them understand WHY you do what you do. – It's about time someone asked!
7. Create a strict guideline that you and your team follow throughout the year. It shows your team what you expect from them and helps you to be fair and unbiased when making decisions. – Ok, rules are rules, but they are there for a reason.
8. Set Goals for you and your assistant coaches and volunteers. Set an example for your players and team. Let them know you're working hard too. - Glad to see our coach's have something to work towards too!
9. Always look for a better way. Even if you think your way is a better way, keep considering options, otherwise you'll lose your creativity and the enjoyment of being a coach. Always be ready to go back to the drawing board. - Time to huddle up and regroup. Coaching with a clear head, I like it!
10. Remember the bottom line: It's a game! So, play hard and have fun! – Hello! If you're not having fun, what's the point?
Filed under: Youth Sports
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