Characteristics of a Successful Coach

Coaches are important people in the lives of athletes. No matter the age of your players, you are a role model to them. Remember that you are coaching the future coaches. The players are watching everything you do and listening to everything you say. You need to keep that in mind while coaching. There are some characteristics every coach must have in order to be successful.

Motivation

A coach's No. 1 job is to motivate her team. Give your athletes encouragement and they will be motivated to be successful.

Compassion

Treat the team as a family. By showing the athletes you care about them and their success, they will show you loyalty and play better.

Positive Attitude

If a team of athletes thinks they are losers, they will lose. Keep team spirit alive by bringing a positive attitude to the field at all times. There is no need for negativity in sports. A coach has to change the team attitude by being the example.

Poise

Keep your poise both on and off the field. When a coach loses his composure, it gives everyone else under you (assistants, staff, athletes) the permission to lose their composure too. Recheck your attitude if you feel like you are coming unglued.

Communication

Communication is key to success in any field. As coach, make sure you tell your athletes their strengths and not just their weaknesses. When you do point out their weak areas, show them how to correct those weaknesses.

Fairness

A coach needs to treat all athletes fairly. Your players should know that. Do not give special treats to some chosen athlete. Treat them all equally.

Never give up

Never leave the field knowing that you did not give your best effort. Giving up shows your players that it is okay to give up in life. Give 100 percent, and then give some more.

Resources

• American Coaching Association