Sports coaches are critical to the success of various sports. They are at the center of performer development and participation. By definition, a sports coach is a person who assists the development and learning of another individual or a team of persons in order to enhance their performance in a particular sport. A coach equally supports individuals` personal development using sport as an instrument for development and change. The paper examines the significance of my being a role model for players on and off the court and how I incorporate this in my day-to-day life. The essay also elaborates on my philosophy on setting examples to my athletes.
Being a role model on and off the court is important for several reasons. Firstly, as a coach, everything I do is absorbed by my players` minds. Accordingly, I have to think through every action before committing to it since I am the source of guidance and direction to my players. As a coach, I train my players not only on how to develop themselves physically, but also emotionally. Secondly, a coach helps his or her players to believe in themselves. I always tell my players that I trust in their ability to make moral and appropriate decisions. I always emphasize on personal integrity, which is important in helping them believe in their abilities (LeMier 5). Thirdly, through coaching, I train my players on the basic principles of ethical behavior. Consequently, as they mature they understand the ramifications of moral and sound decision-making. Right decisions must be made within and without the court. For instance, when the team is confronted with a difficult decision such as peer pressure to use drugs, my positive role model as their coach can assist them make the right decision. Most importantly, a coach molds and crates the next generation of citizens who are capable of becoming future caretakers of our country and planet. Future physicians, environmentalists, professional athletes, public servants among others (Mastroleo et al. 68). Therefore, as a coach, I have the ability to mold and shape my players` moral compass and self-esteem. Through my personal example of good citizenship and moral strength, I can indirectly influence my athletes to influence their colleagues to conduct themselves in an ethical and upright manner, which creates a positive environment where good things happen.
My philosophy on setting examples to my athletes is captured by the following phrase, “sport is great, but it is just a game.” I want my players to learn the game, the techniques, rules, strategies, skills and the significance of team and individual effort. Sporting activities, such as football or basketball, like life, offer numerous opportunity to receive blessings and confront challenges. A significant part of the value of a sport is learning how to confront and overcome challenging situations in an honorable manner. In so doing, the players learn a lot about themselves, God, and human nature. I also strive to make them win the game without showing arrogance and lose without being distraught. I work toward helping them enhance their knowledge and skills but also make them discover that their numerous weaknesses are self-imposed and can be overcome through hard work and commitment. Accordingly, the team plays hard to win. But again, I make them recall that it is just a game.
In conclusion, as a coach, it is often easy to lose focus on what is important. It is not about the wins and neither is it about training my players on the fundamentals. The most critical thing is to teach my players about life. How they can be truly happy and successful, how they can be good teammates and friends, and how to lead their lives with confidence and integrity. Every coach has a significant influence on his or her players, and many of these players what you did and what you told them for the rest of their lives.
Works Cited
LeMier, Kaytlin. “Relationship between Athletes and Role Models,” Journal of Undergraduate Research at Minnesota State University, vol. 8, no. 7, 2008, pp. 1-10.
Mastroleo, Nadine R. et al. “Do Coaches Make a Difference Off the Field? The Examination of Athletic Coach Influence on Early College Student Drinking”. Addiction Research & Theory, vol. 20, no. 1, 2011, pp. 64-71.