If you have a second, write down the top 5 qualities you think are important in a coach. . .

What did you come up with?

Perhaps your list included things like:

• Organized

• Kind

• Knowledgeable

• Passionate

No doubt, there are many characteristics good coaches share.

But what if we changed the question just slightly to this:

• What do you think are the top 5 qualities children want in their coach?

Researcher Angela Visek from George Washington University asked that question and the results are telling. . .

The Coach’s Self-Check: Do You Have What Players Want?

Visek’s results showed that kids want their coaches to be:

1. Respectful and encouraging

2. A positive role model

3. A consistent and clear communicator

4. Knowledgeable about the sport

5. A good listener

So, how’d you do? I found the list fascinating.

So fascinating that I typed it up and taped it to my desk. That way I see it every day before practice.

Beyond Basketball Knowledge: Why Soft Skills Are Key for Elite Coaching

What does almost all coach education focus on? Knowledge of sport.

And yes, players want coaches who know the sport. But that’s only 4th on the list. And if you aren’t doing the top 3 things, your knowledge probably isn’t transferring effectively.

Unfortunately, hardly any youth coach training focuses on things like communication and motivation.

As a result, many well-intentioned coaches neglect those areas. Don’t let that be you. Be intentional about the “soft skills” that separate elite coaches.

• Schedule meetings with your players

• Be aware of your example

• Provide effective feedback during practice & games

• Build your players’ confidence

If you spend as much time focusing on those traits as you do on your basketball knowledge, your coaching will go to a whole new level. Even more important, so will your players!

Comments Most Likes First   Oldest First   Newest First Anne Wachtmeister says: 7/29/2025 at 2:24:26 PM SPOT ON! Like     login   register

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