Coaching Transcends the Field of Play

Regardless of whether you're a high performance, amateur or grassroots coach, we all share the same responsibilities. As Head Coach of the recently crowned world champion Australian Diamonds, my job as a leader requires many of the same skills and attributes as a grassroots coach or business leader — in order to be successful.

Coaches learn a lot about themselves as they develop their coaching skills — and the great thing about this is that it can be related to any area of life. To become a good coach, you're going to become a better person. That contributes to your family life, your professional life, in so many different aspects.

Athlete Wellbeing

The mental and physical health of athletes is paramount. I firmly believe in taking a holistic approach to wellbeing and argue that the mental condition of athletes is just as important as having strong, fit and capable bodies. Physically preparing athletes for competition is the norm — but supporting mental health is more important than ever, as the prevalence of anxiety and depression has sharply increased in today's society.

As a head coach and leader, the most important skill is to get to know your athletes on and off the court and treat everyone as individuals. I know that whenever I present coach education to grassroots coaches, they want drills and skills — but the most important thing is to get to know the players as people. Understand what makes them tick, and you'll be able to provide them with the best and most suitable coaching sessions.

Social Responsibility

The impact of a coach on individuals is often underestimated. While a good coach can effectively communicate strategies and tactics, they will also play a significant role in the overall development of individuals. As coaches we have a wonderful opportunity to be a positive impact on society. Coaches have a responsibility to demonstrate respect, tolerance, leadership, empathy, encouragement, and other important values that develop good people as well as good players.

Continuous Learning

One of my favourite sayings is "the only coach you need to be better than, is the one you were yesterday." Regardless of whether you're a junior coach or an international head coach, it's important to continuously develop your skills. This can be through reading books, speaking with other coaches or leaders, and observing coaches in action.

Support

Coaches play an important role in supporting and enhancing the participation experience, as well as developing players to progress along the athlete pathway. The best coaching environments are ones where athletes feel genuinely supported — not just in their performance, but in their growth as people.

Outcomes

Ultimately, coaching is about outcomes — but those outcomes extend far beyond wins and losses. The real measure of great coaching is what athletes take with them long after their playing days are over: resilience, leadership, the ability to work in teams, and an understanding of what they are truly capable of when supported well.