The Obnoxious Sideline Coach
We all know this guy. The loud, obnoxious coach on the sideline during games. This person yells constantly during the game. Some things are positive when good things happen, but mostly it’s shouting technical orders and obvious statements. Such things spouted are “Get the ball!” or “Take a player!” or even “Come on! What are you doing?” or “Don’t do that!” To the outsider looking in, this seemingly passionate, caring coach sounds like an idiot and a is a fairdinkum ineffective coach!
Now that we’ve identified him, let’s hear what I say about coaching from the sidelines. The real reason he’s saying these things is to vent his own frustrations and fulfill his own need to contribute and be heard. Typically, the players on the field cannot hear most of what is being yelled. By the time someone hears it, it’s usually too late for the instructions because the play has already occurred. Also, a lot of this yelling comes across as negative because it’s under toned with frustration.
Practice equals performance. A prize boxer isn’t made in the ring, but rather they are recognized for all the hours training in the gym. In other words, you’re only going to play at the skill level you’ve prepared for. It’s the coaches job to do as much as possible to prepare its players outside of tournaments. Drills, drills, drills.
At tournaments, it’s a coach’s job to keep the players in a solid routine to go into each game relaxed and ready to go. Some things include stretching together and foot racquet work prior to game time. During games, in my opinion, it’s the coaches job to stay positive. During chukkas, there might be time on dead balls or in between goals to give very refined, effective instructions, but most of those tweaks should occur in between them.
As a coach, it’s my job to remind my players who they are. They should know that even when things get tough or frustrating, you are proud of them and believe in them. Many players become way too down on themselves and mope around, but where will that get them? It’s the coaches job to give them a reality check and then follow it with positive words of encouragement. Ultimately, it’s the coaches job to keep it classy and be respectful and humble and hopefully this attitude will translate to players which follow suit.
If you’re one of these coaches and I’ve offended you, too bad. I want you to know that I’ve been this coach too. I too am filled with passionate and excitement for my team and I want them to win so badly! Make a commitment as a coach today to take my words to heart and maybe rethink your old ways. There are studies (which I can’t cite) that back up my “keep it positive” theory and render the old-school methods obsolete.
Please COMMENT below! I’d love to hear your opinions on this topic!
