Reader,
Over the years of interviewing hundreds of experts for the PDP community, one question I have consistently asked is “what are the key characteristics of an effective coach?” The answers obviously vary, but one common thread that emerges from the best in the business, is self-awareness.
Self-awareness is essential to understanding the impact of every intervention you make, every word you say, your body language on the sideline and of course it’s essential in showing empathy towards your players, understanding their context. I fundamentally believe that teams mirror coaches, so if we model the right behaviours and display emotional intelligence, we can positively impact our players.
So how can pressure of the game impact this? I know over the years I have put pressure on myself, or felt pressure from clubs or parents to win games of football even if I truly believe in player development first.
Recently I was very lucky to spend a day with an elite section of the police force as part of a coaching course I am doing. The leaders of this group spoke about how they supported their team to understand pressure, train under pressure, be self-aware when they are “going into the red” and importantly, arm them with the skills to self-regulate and bring themselves back into a clear frame of mind.
One thing that hit home to all of the coaches attending, is that the scenarios these brave men and women face in their work is real pressure – and they never know when they’ll be called into action, or which potentially life-threatening situation they will face.
This experience puts football in perspective, that no matter the state of the game, or the scenario our team faces, lives are not on the line, it’s just a game.
Three things to consider.
- When you’re on the sideline and the parents are watching, the game is close, do you stay true to your values and consistent in your behaviour?
- How often do you feel the need to speak up, yell instructions or command your players because that’s what the perception of ‘coaching’ is?
- Do you understand the impact of your body language and other non-verbal communication in your coaching?
One thing for you to try this week.
Ask a colleague or parent to observe your sideline behaviour if you have a game and feedback on what they noticed. This will be even more impactful if you can film it and then reflect on what you learned.
One critical resource on the topic.
Check out this fantastic article from clinical psychologist and motivational interviewing expert, Professor Stephen Rollnick on coach communication which provides practical advice for you to apply on the grass.
