A strong athlete-coach relationship can be the backbone of a successful season. Beyond skills and strategies, athletes look to their coaches for leadership, support, and inspiration. Here’s what today’s athletes want from their coaches and why these elements can make all the difference.
1. Clear Communication and Transparency
Athletes need coaches to be honest and direct with them. Clear, transparent communication helps eliminate misunderstandings and builds trust. Athletes want feedback they can act on—no beating around the bush. Whether it’s a strategy change or constructive criticism, direct communication makes athletes feel respected and understood. Know why your athletes play. Know what their goals are for the season, both on and off the field.
- Tip for Coaches: Be open to both positive and critical feedback and set aside time to talk with each athlete individually.
2. Consistency and Fairness
Consistency in training, expectations, and disciplinary actions creates a safe environment for athletes. When coaches set clear standards and apply them fairly, athletes know they’re being evaluated objectively. They want to feel that their dedication and hard work are recognized, regardless of individual personalities or past history with a coach.
- Tip for Coaches: Outline clear goals, expectations, and rewards. Athletes thrive when they understand what’s expected of them and how to achieve it.
3. Goal-Setting and Accountability
Many athletes are highly goal-oriented, so they want a coach who can help them identify and set achievable goals. Coaches who actively work with athletes to create actionable game-day objectives not only help individual athletes stay motivated but also foster a team culture of improvement and achievement.
- Tip for Coaches: Sports Hawgs Game Day Stats Journals can be a great tool to assist athletes in setting daily and seasonal goals, tracking performance, and staying accountable.
4. Support for Mental Health
Today’s athletes are more open about their mental health needs and seek support systems that include mental well-being as part of training. Coaches who openly support mental health and help athletes develop positive self-talk and resilience show that they care about them as individuals, not just players. This trust can make athletes feel more confident and valued.
- Tip for Coaches: Provide resources like mental health check-ins or promote journaling for emotional and performance reflection, as it’s a great way for athletes to stay grounded and mentally resilient.
5. Adaptability and Open-Mindedness
Every athlete is different, and they appreciate coaches who are flexible in their approach. Adaptability is crucial, especially when injuries, personal challenges, or team dynamics change. Coaches who can adapt strategies or training methods based on individual needs show that they value each athlete’s unique journey.
- Tip for Coaches: Take time to learn each athlete’s strengths, weaknesses, and personal goals. This insight can be invaluable when creating individualized training plans.
6. Building Confidence and Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can transform an athlete’s performance. Coaches who celebrate small wins, recognize improvements, and encourage athletes when they’re struggling help build confidence and motivate them to push through challenges. When athletes believe their coach has faith in them, they’re more likely to reach their potential.
- Tip for Coaches: Incorporate weekly team huddles to highlight achievements, big or small. Recognizing these moments in front of the team builds confidence and camaraderie.
7. A Growth Mindset and Willingness to Improve
Athletes want coaches who embody a growth mindset and seek to continually improve themselves. Coaches who are open to learning, whether it’s new techniques or feedback from the team, set an example for athletes to do the same. This mindset shows humility and a commitment to getting better together.
- Tip for Coaches: Be open about your own learning process. Share insights from recent training sessions or techniques you’ve studied. It shows athletes that growth is a lifelong journey.
8. Passion for the Sport and the Team
Passion is contagious. Athletes want to feel their coach’s enthusiasm and commitment. A coach who loves what they do and demonstrates excitement during practices and games fosters a culture of enthusiasm and dedication within the team.
- Tip for Coaches: Lead with energy and set the tone. Share why you love coaching, and celebrate both the highs and lows of the sport alongside your athletes.
9. Empathy and Respect for Athlete’s Time and Personal Life
Balancing sports, academics, work, and personal life is a reality for most athletes. Coaches who respect this balance and create reasonable schedules and training plans are valued. Athletes appreciate coaches who are empathetic, understanding that their time is precious and that they are whole people outside of sports.
- Tip for Coaches: Schedule time for one-on-one check-ins, even if brief. Allow athletes to voice any scheduling concerns or personal issues, and be willing to adjust as necessary.
Wrapping Up: Building Trust and Team Success
Ultimately, athletes want a coach who sees them as more than just players in a game. They seek mentorship, guidance, and the motivation to be their best selves, both on and off the field. By fostering open communication, showing empathy, and helping athletes set and achieve goals, coaches can build a culture of respect, trust, and success that not only makes the team stronger but also creates lasting, positive relationships. What do your athletes need?
