Written by Unpacking Individual and Collective Purpose in Sports Leadership
Understanding one’s purpose in any venture can be the defining factor that determines success or failure, joy or discontent. The same holds for sports coaching, an occupation where the stakes can be high, and the payoff is often more about personal fulfillment and team achievement than mere winning or losing. As French author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry famously said, “If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people to collect wood and don’t assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea”.
Why Am I Here?
To answer the question, “Why am I here?” a coach must confront and reconcile his or her motivations, aspirations, values, and skills. Intrinsic motivation is key to any leadership role (Ryan & Deci, 2000), but especially so in coaching, where passion and dedication are tested in every training session and competition. If a coach understands their why, they are able to stay highly motivated and overcome adversity.
Why Are We Here Together?
The collective “Why are we here together?” adds an extra layer of complexity. In the context of sports, this speaks to team purpose and cohesion. Creating a sense of unity, a shared understanding of team values, and a common vision can elevate the performance of sports teams. A 2002 research study found that “Teams with a strong sense of collective identity and purpose tend to perform better and show greater resilience in the face of adversity” (Carron et al.).
Role of the Coach
As a coach, you’re not just the team leader, but also the facilitator of this shared understanding. Coaches must create an environment where athletes’ talents can be joined into a collective strength. And coaches can influence the strength and future outcomes of athletes and teams.
Conclusion
The questions “Why am I here?” and “Why are we here together?” are critical explorations for any coach. The answers illuminate the coach’s personal drive and the shared purpose that unites the team. As a coach, it’s your role to help your team answer these questions and, in doing so, forge a stronger, more cohesive unit that can face any challenge with shared determination and purpose.
References:
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Intrinsic and extrinsic motivations: Classic definitions and new directions. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 25(1), 54-67.
Carron, A. V., Colman, M. M., Wheeler, J., & Stevens, D. (2002). Cohesion and performance in sport: A meta analysis. Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology, 24(2), 168-188.