Throughout
any given week, a coach can spend anywhere from ten to twenty plus hours with
an athlete. Many times a coach will end up spending more time with an athlete
than an athlete’s parents will. This goes to show that a coach must be a
positive role model for their team. Angela
Lumpkin1 says it best, “Individuals in leadership roles have the
opportunities and responsibilities to teach about and model the moral courage
required to live a principled life.” Coaches have to step up to the plate and
set a positive example for these young minds.
Bloom, Bush,
Schinke, and Salemla found that athletes were more likely to have advice
from their mentors instilled in them, as compared to students who are not
athletes. The behaviors they see from their coach, in practice and in games,
are likely to influence their actions at some point in their future.
In the
time coaches spend with their athletes, they must set a positive example. They
must lead with their actions. These are the people that student athletes are
looking up to, and it should not be a job that is taken lightly.
1Lumpkin, A. (2010). Teachers and coaches as
leaders demonstrating character and competence. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance, 81(8), 49-52.
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This blog is dead on. There are many so called "coaches" out there who are just in it to receive a paycheck. Though there are some good coaches out there, most coaches today think it should be an easy walk in the park for them instead of trying to get to best out of each athlete. Yes coaches teach the physical end great but its the development morality that could last them a life time. As a coach I focus on the small details because its the small things that in the end will add up to something big.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Mark, this blog is right on point. Being an athletic trainer, spending a decent amount of time with my athletes is a must. That being said, the feeling of being a role model and positive influence is a given. Athlete spend time with those who will better them in the long run. They trust that they can go to their coach/ athletic trainer with any problem or concern..
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