A good coach should create a game plan. Coaches are just like teachers and should create something similar to a lesson plan. She should write down everything she plans to do in practice to keep from getting off track. Each drill should run smoothly into the next. Drills should be addressed to the things her team needs to work on for improvement, not to work on things the team is already good at.
Fairness is a key role for the coach. Every team has a star player but one player doesn’t make a team. Often times the star player likes to undermine the coach and do what they want because they don’t think the coach will bench them. The coach needs to stand firm and use the disciplinary plan she created. Treating the star player different from the rest of the team will cause major problems with the rest of the team.
A good coach, although strict most of the time, can also loosen up with the students, too. She needs to remain strong most of the time, but can give the team a day off if games are far between or they have worked extra hard for a period of time. Sometimes players will come back rejuvenated and play better for her. At the end of the season she may treat her team to a pizza party or some other type of entertainment.
A good coach knows her sport. She may have experience from playing, but if not, she must have an in-depth understanding of her sport, from the fundamental skills to advanced tactics and strategies. A good coach is always learning new techniques, attending sports clinics, is up on the latest rehab for injuries, and seeks out help and tips from other coaches and athletes. Motivation and helping students achieve their goals is another quality of a good coach. She helps the players believe in themselves as well as making practices challenging and fun. She never puts a player down instead praises them.
Leading by example is another trait for a good coach. She sets out rules for her team and follows them herself. She is a model of integrity, dignity, and honesty. She always maintains a positive attitude. A good coach is committed to her profession and to her team. She is doing this because she loves it.
