Written by As coaches, we strive to lead our teams to success, but what role do we play in helping our sports organization reach its broader goals? This article discusses the multifaceted role of the coach in facilitating goal achievement within a sports organization.
Coaches serve a critical function as the conduit between an organization’s goals and the athletes who carry them out. They communicate the organization’s vision, frame the narrative of the team’s pursuit, and drive the actions necessary to achieve those goals. Coaches can influence athletes’ perceptions, attitudes, behaviors, team cohesion, and performance with effective communication.
The approach to coaching also directly impacts the team’s ability to reach its goals. A holistic athlete-focused coaching philosophy, can enhance intrinsic motivation and overall team commitment, leading to better team performance (Côté & Gilbert, 2009). By treating each athlete as an individual with unique needs, strengths, and weaknesses, coaches can create a more resilient, adaptable, and driven team.
Strategic planning and effective leadership are additional critical skills in facilitating goal achievement. Coaches effectively leading can help establish a positive culture, foster athlete and team development, and ultimately achieve desired outcomes (Cassidy, Jones, and Potrac, 2016). A coach’s ability to set clear expectations, foster a positive team culture, and adjust strategies based on game demands and team dynamics can greatly influence an organization’s ability to reach its goals.
Lastly, goal achievement is a collective process. By fostering strong relationships with all members of the organization, including other coaches, support staff, and the athletes themselves, coaches can build a sense of unity and shared responsibility. As Cruickshank and Collins note, “Strong relationships built on trust and respect facilitate better communication, increase team cohesion, and improve collective efficacy, all of which are crucial for successful goal achievement” (2017, p. 450).
The coach’s role in helping a sports organization reach its goals is multifaceted and critical. By employing effective communication, adopting an athlete-centered coaching approach, strategically planning, and fostering strong relationships, coaches can significantly contribute to their organization’s success.
References:
Cassidy, T., Jones, R., & Potrac, P. (2016). Understanding Sports Coaching: The Social, Cultural, and Pedagogical Foundations of Coaching Practice. Routledge.
Côté, J., & Gilbert, W. (2009). An Integrative Definition of Coaching Effectiveness and Expertise. International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching, 4(3), 307-323.
Cruickshank, A., & Collins, D. (2017). Advancing leadership in sport: Time to ‘actually do’ leadership development? The Sport Psychologist, 34(5), 445-455.