Hello everyone! Coach Paul here. I hope that all is well with you and yours!
Though the articles that I post on my website, are specifically geared towards helping youth coaches succeed, this particular post has a slightly different intent. I am speaking to those specific individuals who would benefit greatly, by having an exceptional coach who can lead kids by example; i.e. parents, the league in question and its governing body. This is for YOU, so I trust that this article will be informative to you. Let’s chat about some useful tips for finding a youth coach.
Who IS A Youth Coach?
When we think of sports coaching, we might picture a lively practice field where athletes are learning the fundamentals of their sport, from a guy with aviator sunglasses on and sporting a military crew cut. I can tell you, however, as someone who has seen the impact of great coaching first-hand, that it’s about so much more than just teaching kids how to play a sport and any “swagger” that the coach coincidentally might have.
In respect to youth coaching, individuals must not only instruct, but also inspire, mentor and instill values that youngsters can utilize off the field. For many young players, their coach’s influence extends well beyond the sports that they enjoy. It can shape their character and their overall approach to life.
A good youth coach who continuously looks out for the best interest of his/her young players, could arguably be considered a type of “guardian” of sorts, if you will. Nothing wrong with that at all, in my humble opinion.
With this brand of substantial influence in mind, searching and selecting the right coach for your specific players, becomes paramount. It is not just about the techniques and tactics that a coach would bring to the table; it is about finding someone who can also engage young minds, build confidence, and promote teamwork and sportsmanship.
It cannot be overstated, that this person MUST be a positive role model, with the ability to connect with players and guide their development both as athletes and as individuals. This is true for older teens as well as for adolescent players
Please keep in mind that this process is not some brand of rudimentary “plug and play”. It can still be a very complex process, where you are looking for the right fit for YOUR particular group of players. Just be mindful that a coach who may be a viable fit for Team 1, may not necessarily be the right coach for Team 2 or even Team 3.
Qualifications and Certifications
There are tangible criteria that can also be considered when seeking a youth coach, such as qualifications and any notable certifications. Certifications are important documents that can signify that a coaching prospect has a stern commitment to being a stalwart coach.
When you’re on the lookout for an exceptional youth coach, inquiring about their qualifications and certifications is a viable step to pursue. A coach’s formal education, any current or completed training programs, and earned certifications can shine a light on their expertise and dedication to coaching.
But why are these pieces of documentation so valuable? They are more than just formalities; they can portray a commitment to learning the strategies and ethics that make a coach outstanding in his/her sport. Certifications from reputable bodies such as:
Youth Coaching Institute
NASM
Positive Coaching Alliance
can potentially ensure that a chosen coach has met certain industry standards and often indicates that they are equipped with the latest techniques and knowledge to be competitive. With that competitiveness, success can be achieved.
With this in mind, it is not only about a coach’s initial training, either. An exceptional coach is never done with learning and improving. Your coaches should be engaged in continuous professional development to stay current with best practices in youth development, safety protocols for the particular sport, and the psychological aspects and challenges of coaching young athletes. These qualities are intangible and simply cannot be framed up on the wall of a den or office.
To many, obtaining formal certifications and certain qualifications can seem a bit much. It may even seem superfluous, especially in regards to coaching very young athletes. After all, sports (in particular, for younger players) is supposed to be fun, right? As an involved parent or league administrator/executive, you must make an informed determination of whether or not certifications or qualifications will be the be-all and end-all, in your coaching search.
Interpersonal Skills and Philosophy
If a decision has been made that certain qualifications and certifications will not be prerequisites to securing the right coach, then a keen focus on the individual’s interpersonal skills and philosophies must then be made. Great youth coaches who are able to demonstrate strong communication abilities, will be able to convey complex concepts in ways that young athletes can easily digest and put into practice.
Try this…watch potential coaches interact with youth. Do they seem approachable? Can they maintain the attention and respect of young athletes? Their demeanor with the kids provides critical insights into their coaching style and effectiveness. These can be tell-tale signs.
Next, consider the coach’s philosophy. A youth coach’s job isn’t just to teach the game but to shape character and attitudes. Do their values align with what you want instilled in your child? A coach who emphasizes sportsmanship, camaraderie, and personal growth, alongside technical skills, fosters a more holistic development in their athletes.
Finally, reflect on their commitment to sportsmanship, integrity, and respect. These core values are as important off the field as on it. Coaches who model these behaviors positively influence young individuals, teaching them invaluable life lessons through the lens of sports.
With a sound understanding of a youth coach’s interpersonal skills and philosophy, you’ll be better prepared to evaluate their ability to influence young athletes not just in the game but in life. As you transition to the next section, bear in mind that a coach’s past performance with teams can provide substantial evidence of these skills in practice.
I understand that selecting the ideal youth coach is a decision that can significantly influence a young athlete’s experience and development. I’ve discussed the necessity of scrutinizing a coach’s qualifications and certifications, delving beyond what’s presented on paper to gauge their interpersonal skills and coaching philosophy.
This is no small task, of course. A coach’s track record and references offer a window into their past performance and impact on players. But remember, a winning streak isn’t always the sole marker of a great coach. Consider how they prioritize personal growth, skill advancement, and resilience in the face of loss. These aspects often matter more for holistic development.
I advise you to actively participate in this selection process, involving your child wherever appropriate. Their comfort and confidence with the coach are just as important as the credentials. After all, this is about more than just sports; it’s about nurturing qualities like teamwork, dedication, and leadership.
Conclusion: Making An Informed Decision
The right youth coach can work wonders in fostering a positive and enriching environment that extends beyond the playing field/rink/court. It is about sculpting experiences that shape character and life skills.
As parents and/or the organization make this important choice, these factors must be weighed carefully, to ensure a children’s engagement in sports is as rewarding and educational as possible. Remember….The coach IS the vital clog in the machine.
Thank you kindly, for diving into this article. I hope that this information was useful to you, in your youth coaching search! If you have any comments that you would like to add, please feel free to do so below. Otherwise, you can simply say “Hi!”. I like it when people say “Hi!”. And as always…thanks for reading!
Coach Paul