1
Understanding the Sport
To be able to teach effectively,youmust have in-depth understanding of the sport from the fundamental skills to advanced tactics and strategy.Youmayevenhave experiencefrom a careerplayingthe sport.Coaches must plan for the season, know the progressive nature of training adaptation, know the rules, and provide a simple, structured environment for athletes to succeed.
2
Eagerness to learn
While a good coach knows a great deal about a sport,youmust continue to learn and develop new training techniques. Staying up-to-date and informed of new research, training and everything which supports the coaching processisa sign of a great coach. Attending classes in a range of subjects such as sport psychology, nutrition and exercise physiology is a great idea and is readily accessible for any coach who wants to grow and improve.
3
Sharing knowledge
Obtaining knowledge is important but having the confidence to share and seek others’ views, especially those outside of your sport, is a key quality. The best coaches clearly understand they are there to educate the athletes. Most athletes spend most of the time training on their own, so the more they really understand what they are doing and why they are doing it the better they will train and practise.
4
Motivational skills
Asuccessful coach is a motivator with a positive attitude and enthusiasm for the sport and the athletes.Acoach who can motivate is able to generate the desire to excel in their athletes. When motivating a player, a good coach stresses trying to reach performance goals, not outcome goals.Enjoymentand funare the cornerstones to successful coaching.
5
Knowing the athlete
Being aware of individual differences in athletes is an important ingredient in coaching excellence.Emotional displays may work for some athletes but could have a devastating effect on others. Individualising communication and motivation to specific athletes is vital to successful coaching. Paying attention toyourathlete’s emotions, strengths and weaknessesisthe responsibility of a good coach.
6
Communication
Aneffective coach communicates well and exudes credibility, competence, respect and authority.Youshould be able to explain ideas clearly. Clear communication means setting defined goals, giving direct feedback and reinforcing the key messages. Acknowledgingsuccess is also essential for good communication. Language is a key part ofcoaching andkeeping everything simple and easily understoodcan be vital.
7
Listening skills
Part of communicating effectively is listening.Youshould be compassionate and welcomeanathlete’scomments, questions and input.Aneffective coach will actively seek out information from athletes, and work in an environment where athletes are encouraged to present ideas and thoughts.
8
Discipline
Athletes need to adhere to a reasonable set of rules both on and off the field and if these are ignoredyou areresponsible for discipline. Trust between athlete and coach is of paramount importance at all times and essential for successful coaching.Aneffective coach clearly states a code of conduct up front and adheres to it. Evidence supports that for discipline to effectively change behaviour, it must be mild, prompt and consistent.
