Wednesday, June 11, 2008

3 Reasons Why Athletes Lose Trust in Coaches

We live in an age where it is harder than ever to establish longevity in the coaching profession, no matter the sport. Expectations for today?s coaches are higher, and they are dealing with athletes that are stronger, faster, and smarter than previous generations of athletes. Coaches that last a long time in their sport owe their career in part to the amount of trust that they build over time with their athletes. I have worked with dozens upon dozens of coaches, from all levels of sport. What follows are three important reasons why I believe athletes fail to trust their coaches.

1. Their coach has no credibility

Some coaches simply lack credibility, and it has nothing to do with whether the coach is a former player in that sport. Credibility comes with being respected by your peers in your profession, and by having a strong track record of winning, getting the most out of your players, and acting in the best interest of your team and players. Coaches also establish credibility via being an exemplar of ethical behavior. Doing what?s right for your athletes and organization, no matter the situation or consequence, goes a long way toward building trust in your athletes.

2. Their coach has an inflated ego

Coaches have big egos. It comes with the territory. However, coaches whose egos are so large and problematic that they lose touch with reality run the risk of becoming a joke to their athletes. Keep this in mind: Coaching is a fickle business. Today?s rising star is tomorrow?s disappointment. Keep perspective on things, regardless of win/loss records, to be certain that your ego doesn?t outgrow its owner.

3. They can?t relate to their coach

Believe it or not, coaches need to have basic relationship skills. These include the art of reflective listening (?So what I hear you saying is??), the art of communicating effectively, and the ability to do these things consistently. Athletes that feel understood, and know where they stand, do well. Athletes that feel like their coach can relate to them, and know that their coach has a specific plan for their development, thrive.

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Dr. Leif H. Smith is the President of Personal Best Consulting, a performance and management consultation firm located in Hilliard, OH. His clients have included The Ohio State University Department of Athletics, The University of Iowa, Duquesne University, and other collegiate programs. He regularly consults with athletes at all levels, from amateur to professional, and has worked with hundreds of athletes, teams, and coaches to improve performance, on and off the field.