Be the Example

Positive leadership is an absolute necessity when in the role of a coach. Those who lead in a positive manner are those who have great teams. Does that mean that the team always ends up in the win column? - No, not necessarily. However, these are the teams who grow the most, learn the most, and experience the most in terms of the sport. It all comes back to coaching, whether we realize it or not. Coaches set the benchmark, they set the standard, and they lead by example. Well, at least that's what coaches are supposed to do. It's not enough for coaches to just give the example; coaches need to BE THE EXAMPLE.

Players admire when coaches say something and then follow through on it - This is called keeping a promise and staying true to one's word. If you, as a coach, say that you will do something, then BE THE EXAMPLE and make sure it gets done, no matter what.

If you preach to your players to have zero excuses, then you, as a coach, need to have zero excuses as well. Again, this is reciprocal and fair. If you as a coach demonstrate that you live an excuse-free life, then your players will soon come to possess a similar mindset. It may take months and even years, but in time, when a coach chooses to BE THE EXAMPLE, players will embrace similar traits.

If you are constantly discussing the importance of fitness to your players, then you, as a coach, should probably practice what you preach. Show the players that it's not just them working hard, but that you are doing it as well. In essence, everyone is on the journey together. If you want your players to be fit, then BE THE EXAMPLE and get fit yourself!

If you expect professionalism to be at the forefront of your team, then guess what? - You, as a coach, need to demonstrate professionalism. Am I saying not to have fun or joke around? - Not by any means. What I am saying is that if you want your team to be serious and abide by certain principles, morals, and ethics; then as a coach, you must unquestionably BE THE EXAMPLE. Show up on time, minimize your swearing, dress the part, be kind, be genuine, have things set up ahead of time, and be organized.

These are just some examples of what it means to BE THE EXAMPLE as a coach. If you want the respect and admiration of your players, then you must be willing to BE THE EXAMPLE. There is no way around it. This is one of the differences between good and great coaches. Coaches who lead by example are coaches who will guide their team to success. Start being the example today!