Coaches, here's what your athletes want.

What are practical things coaches can implement to support their athletes' well-being?’

The no. 1 thing 8-18 yo student #athletes want from their coach(es) according to a study done by George Washington University.

As I dive deeper into the world of building psychological strength among athletes, I keep getting asked what that looks like for coaches.

Start with respect and encouragement.

Practical tips:

1. Find something positive to say following each performance (could be an individual play, race, meet, match, whatever). Leave the athlete with something encouraging to hold onto.

2. Find something positive to say particularly when you're pissed. You're pissed because of something in you ... and you're placing it on the athlete. Maybe they didn't do what you wanted them to do. Maybe they messed up the play. Start with a positive remark. Have a deeper conversation about what happened later.

3. Listen when the athlete has something to ask or share. Refrain from shutting them down. Refrain from the traditional command and control relationship. The bond between coach and athlete is special and it's most effective when it's a 2 way street.

Respect and encouragement are simple.

Get to know your athletes as individuals. They're more than the sport. They're more than their talent.

You coach humans, not a sport.

Start there. 🔥