Why do people choose to coach? Is it for money or love of the game? Is it for altruistic reasons, a need for affiliation, or something else? I have often wondered if people ask themselves this question or if they “just do it”. The answer is important because understanding your choice will determine whether or not you will be an effective coach. If you coach simply to win games you may be fulfilled but your players won’t learn much. However, if you coach with the ultimate goal of teaching your players what it takes to succeed in life, then it is a win-win for everyone.
So, what is a coach? The dictionary defines it as “a person who trains an athlete or a team of athletes”. But a coach can be anyone who chooses to empower others. It can be a teacher, a mentor, or a parent. One of my first coaches was Mrs. Kimbro, my 11th grade math teacher. She taught me the concept of “paying it forward.” What that means to me is when a person does something to positively affect your life you actively seek to do the same for others. This can be achieved in several ways, but I, like many others, have chosen to do it with athletics. Through our work coaches use sports to impart valuable life lessons and develop leaders. I’m not sure all coaches understand the enormous impact we have on the young men and women with whom we interact (often on a daily basis). And I certainly don’t think many coaches realize how we exponentially impact other people through what we teach our athletes.
In my 30 years as an athlete and coach, I have learned strategic thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and the value of hard work. I discovered the benefits of competition and the rewards of perseverance and patience. Athletics also helped me develop communication and interpersonal skills. These are all things I use in my daily life and I would not be the person I am without that training. So if you coach, never underestimate the significance of your contribution. You have a tremendous opportunity to add value to someone’s life. And in return you may actually grow yourself.
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