Coaching is a challenge. It is a privilege to be called Coach, but it will rarely be an easy title to carry. What we say and how we think matters more than you can imagine. Here are 5 reasons why it matters how we talk about and to our athletes and junior coaches.
1. If you want a positive culture, you must talk with positivity.
Are you the most encouraging person in the room, or do you sometimes set yourself up for failure by being negative? Positive thinking has a proven track record of being of benefit in education, sports, and business. Having positive thoughts can do nothing but help you.
2. Self-fulfilling prophecies are real.
Whether positive or negative, the expectations we have affect our performance and behavior. The effect is so great that our expectations will be fulfilled. So, see yourself and/or your team winning, and you will be more likely to accomplish your vision.
3. There is no age limit on the betrayal of trust.
Athletes, parents, and coaches tend to overshare on social media. Make sure everything you put out on social media is okay with your athlete and their parents. Preserving the relationship with your athletes and their parents is paramount to long-term success.
4. Degrading statements are not effective.
Degrading your athletes or junior coaches is an ineffective way to build relationships. Instead of improved behavior, belittling increases the likelihood of your relationships worsening. How we communicate with our coaching staff and our athletes matters.
5. Encouragement works by building one another up.
Edifying speech is associated with improved outcomes. This is regardless of the age or ability of your athlete. Plus, encouraging words work on your young coaches.
These all seem pretty basic, but are you doing them with consistency?
About the Author
Chad Coy
Master Performance Coach
Chad CoyChad Coy has been a part of the Parisi Speed School family since signing as the 13th Franchise in 2006. A graduate of Purdue University in 1991, Chad studied Exercise Science and Nutrition. Chad still has a strong commitment to as an athlete, and has competed as a professional strongman since 1998. He has won Masters’ America’s Strongest Man “3” times and placed second at Masters’ Worlds two times after 10 years as an open Pro ,where he averaged a top 10 placing. A Powerlifter from 1994 -1998, he has also won 2 National Powerlifting Championships, 1 World Championship, and held 4 American Records and 3 World Records. Chad joined the Master Trainer program in the winter of 2014 and takes great pride in helping educate the future coaches of the franchise.
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