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Become a role model coach
by Katey Rock, Director CheerRock All-Stars-Ventura
County, CA.
We all have the shirts that say “Coaches make dreams come
true” or “I coach because I care”. We all have
them because its true. And though we may be tough at practice and
even show our frustration at competition, deep down, we would not
even bother if we didn't love taking that team or individual and
showing them what they could become. The true reward is helping
a cheerleader accomplish a level of skill that even she didn’t
think possible.
There is no “right” way to coach. There are as many
different styles of coaching as there are coaches. Some never smile
and some are too nice. But if you want gage where you fit in the
mix, ask yourself in every action you take and every order you shout
“am I doing this with respect?” The key in all we do
is RESPECT. No matter how difficult the team or the tension between
this group and that click, you will give those young people a life
lesson they’ll never forget because it applies always. If
you can show respect in everything you do, you can’t go wrong.
If you’re having trouble with your team, do
a “respect” test
Respect can be hard. Teaching respect can be even harder. You have
to start with being the example. Let your team know up front that
you will give them complete respect, but you expect nothing less
in return. If they respect their commitment to the team, they will
arrive to practice on time, with the right shoes and attitude. When
they need to be reminded of their commitment, you simply enforce
their decision. If they decide to arrive late or not prepared for
practice, you must respect their decision by allowing them the consequences.
It is actually disrespectful not to award the punishment. If you
let one girl slide on the rules, she (and the rest of the team)
gets a mixed message. Now the rules are blurred. Naturally, someone
else will try this and eventually you will enforce the rule, but
at what point…after you get frustrated at the lack of respect?
It goes both ways.
When conflict does arise within a group, respect the feelings of
the team members by allowing them the chance to work it out. Now
this can easily get out of hand, so remember, you’re the adult
and ultimately have the final say. They need your guidance.
In the end, be the example. Show respect toward other coaches and
parents, but most of all show respect toward the individuals that
look up to you everyday.
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