Team Building

Team building is the greatest challenge of coaching. It may be the most overlooked aspect of athletes by mediocre coaches.

• You need to emphasize and model the values of your program. Speak often about what you believe in. Pay attention to the language patterns you use-- speak in "we" rather than me or you.
• Show the players that you are loyal to them and confident in them. Do this in your everyday actions as well as how you personally respond to adversity.
• Monitor the climate of the team closely since every season is long and there will be highs and lows. The coach is the guardian of the team. Sometimes players must be disciplined for the sake of the team. Players expect to be disciplined and you may need to step in a “put out the fire” in order to protect team unity.