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Coaching Philosophy

Michael Campbell

University of West Alabama

SM 282

September 23, 2023

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Coaching Philosophy

In this class we have looked at varying aspects of coaching and how it can affect the

students/ children we coach, as well as the toll it takes on the coach. Often coaches are hesitant to

create their own coaching philosophy. This can happen for several reasons, but the most common

reason is because coaches do not see the benefit of a coaching philosophy. Having a coaching

philosophy is a direct reflection of the coach’s feelings and beliefs about their coaching methods

and standards. Most coaches do not realize that they have an inherent way of teaching,

strategizing and a set of principles they use in their instruction (Mergelsberg, 2023). After

reading a few different articles I feel like the following components are the crucial points in my

personal coaching philosophy.

When looking at progress in an athlete I feel that growing and bettering their character is

much more important than gains in their skills. If you focus on the future of any athlete you may

skill or hear about their skillset but you will not go very far if you are lacking in character and

good judgement. This often comes from examples that coach sets for not only the team but for

individuals. This also encompasses the ways you can present yourself in a losing situation.

My second point in my coaching philosophy would be the importance of education over

the sport. You run the risk of being injured every game or practice, so it is essential to keep your

grades up so that you are always prepared for your ability to play a game is over. Within this

point is also the responsibility of the coach to encourage athletes and help them.

I also feel that a huge part of my coaching philosophy would be to help high school

players find opportunities to keep playing. If you are on my team you are important. This means

it is my job to scout places that are looking for players, to make contacts with other coaches and

make visits to other schools.

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Coaching Philosophy

Possibly the biggest factor in my coaching philosophy is that all my athletes would have

goals. We would have some team goals and also have some individual goals. I think it is

important to sit down with each player and look at strengths and weaknesses. This can lead to a

very open conversation about areas that need improvement and also expectations. It also can help

hold athletes accountable that might otherwise get distracted or become unfocused. I also feel

that it is important to have goals as a coach. And why some coaches seem to plateau and are not

progressing in their field.

Lastly, I feel that staying strong in ethics morals, in 2023 is rare. We have looked at

varying situations where ethics came into question and I feel that it is important for your players

to see that regardless of the situation we must as a team stand strong in our beliefs. Having high

expectations for yourself as a coach and also every single player is incredibly important. When

the standards and expectations are high typically everyone will rise to the occasion and succeed.

But these must be addressed up front and be given to everyone.

In conclusion I feel that having a coaching philosophy is important although many do

not. Every coach has a set of standards and beliefs they try to adhere to even if these are not

spoken and broadcast.

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References

Mergelsberg, S. (2007) Developing a Coaching Philosophy [WWW] Available from

https://www.brianmac.co.uk/articles/article007.htm [Accessed 23/9/2023]