Success in Coaching

Many new coaches base the success of their season solely on how many trophies they accumulate. Coaches who have been around for longer will tell you there is more than just bringing home the trophy -- building strong relationships with your team is equally as important to your success as a coach.

It takes more than basic sports knowledge to develop a coaching strategy. You will need a comprehension of fundamental cheerleading techniques, but you will need to know, and do, much more. A coach needs to develop a personal leadership style that best suits her/him and their team.

There is one-step worth every coach's effort:

Know your team!

In order to get your cheerleaders or dancers to perform as a team, you must first understand what motivates the individual athletes. What motivates one participant may not work on another. Some people need a challenge in order to meet a goal. They may need individualized specific direction. Other cheerleaders and dancers may only perform well if they are given the freedom to discover the proper method on their own.

These differences can be frustrating. Try turning to outside sources for assistance. Parents, teachers and past coaches can supply important information because they are familiar with the work habits and personal style of the individual. Once you get to know both the strengths and weaknesses of each cheerleader or dancer, you can take the next step in successful coaching, which is to make sure you create a plan of action for the team as a whole.

Once you have developed a plan for the team, you can work on motivation. You'll want to be sure that motivation comes from within the team as well as from the coach.  Engage your team to be creative and share new moves, chants, stunts etc.  Assign a few members to put together a new dance or cheer. 

Motivation might originate in the form of positive reinforcement.  As a coach you can develop your own rewards.  This would be a good opportunity for parents to get together and create special awards.  It will give your team members something to strive for.  Recognize the entire team as well as individuals. 

You might want to consider having a “special” practice once a month to discuss your progress.  Parents could contribute to pizza on this special practice day.  It is important for your team to create a long lasting bond that will tie them together as a team.
Strong relationships help to build a strong team. It's up to you, as the coach, to be a role model in this regard.  Your cheerleaders and dancers will reward your dedication, and you'll have a happier, more successful team.