My Coaching Philosophy

Not many people realize the importance of developing a philosophy while pursuing their coaching career. Having certain values and beliefs is important, but until you put those principles into words and actions, coaching can become very difficult. As a coach, you will be faced with many challenging decisions, but having a well thought out philosophy will prepare you, and help you make those though calls. There are many things to consider when developing a philosophy, but having a good understanding of one self might be the most critical part. Without truly understanding your own values, it is nearly impossible to teach others, and be a successful leader. Along with understanding your own values, it is important to understand why you want to
I work very hard for what I want, nothing is expected or given. I work well with others, I am truthful and compassionate. I am a very good teammate, meaning that I trust my coaches to make the best decisions for my team even if that means me not playing. I support those who play above and below me and I push them to keep improving no mater where they stand in the line up. My intent for coaching is to teach kids and young adults how to play a sport and enhance their physical skills, how to work devotedly through tough situations, how to work openhandedly with others, and how to develop important social and behavioral skills that will become necessary in their life. Many of these skills come from developing a sense of ethics and morality. I believe that ethics are very important for everyone, regardless of their standing or occupation. Ethics are so powerful. It’s easy to be selfish, but the willingness to do what’s right when there is no reward or punishment, I believe shows strength, confidence, and self worth. Good character, along with ethics, is not only what makes someone appealing and worthy of relationships, but what our world needs more of. I truly believe that you should treat others the way you would want to be treated, and teaching ethics though sport is a great way to practice and enhance character and demeanor
I do not tolerate slacking off, or being lazy. When there is potential, I will do what’s necessary to bring that person to reach their utmost ability. With that being said, I can be very demanding, but in a productive and beneficial way. I see myself as a command style coach. I know when athletes need a bit of a push or encouragement, but also know when to let them solve issues on their own. I believe that I am a command style coach because I do not intend to negotiate or include my athletes in decisions when it comes to playing, and whats best for the team. “In the command style of coaching, the coach makes all the decisions” which is how I intend to execute things (Martens, 28). I do care for their input and thoughts on every situation, but I do not think they are capable of making decisions that are intended for the coach, in the same way that I was not when I was an athlete. There are plenty of situations I will present to them that involve them making decisions of their own, or working with each other to make decisions, but as for the team, what I say will go without negotiation. As I mentioned, I see myself as a demanding coach, but one who is well spoken, and able to get my message across. Without others being able to understand the things I ask from them, we will be unable to progress as a team and individually. Communication in sport, or just in general