Coaching

The Coaching Leadership Model

The ultimate goal of all coaches is to generate positive transformations in an athlete or group of athletes. The foundation of these transformations lies in the coach/athlete relationship, and both participants have to work together in order to achieve the desired changes. The defining feature that separates great coaches from others is the ability to achieve these positive transformations consistently. In spite of inconsistencies such as personnel changes, assistant coach changes, support staff and management changes, rule changes, equipment changes, and league changes, great coaches manage to influence their athletes in positive ways.

In this model, a coach must first inspire an athlete to “buy in” to a particular concept, vision, or organizational goal. This can be done in either a personal manner or by using the format and characteristics of the team. The athlete then becomes enthusiastic about the sport and the challenges of training and competition. This enthusiasm provides the energy which, in turn, allows for the work required to make the necessary changes. However, hard work is not enough. This work must be well directed and imaginatively taught by the coach in order for positive results to occur. In this model, the coach has two primary responsibilities. The first is to inspire the athlete to “buy in.” The second is to imaginatively guide and teach athletes once they have fully committed to the goal. Coaches will vary their approaches based on personal strengths and the unique circumstances of their particular challenge. However, a firm understanding of leadership theory and research can help coaches achieve success in these two areas of responsibility.

...