Saving Graces: Things Great Coaches Do
by Gwen Holtsclaw
Copied from Wisconsin Dance and Pom Coaches Newsletter

It is no accident that sports metaphors abound in all aspects of our modern life---business, art medicine, even religion. The same principles that create success on the playing field will create success in the business arena--and even in our personal struggles. I chose those “saving graces” that will give you tools for creating more success in your life.
My wish for each of you is that you find our own “Saving Grace” that will lead you from being a good coach to being a great coach. Perhaps some of the shared thoughts of great coaches presented here will spur your thinking. I leave you with some parting words about “grace” that I hope inspire you as they have me. As a coach, you may have occasion to stoop frequently!
“Love that goes upward is worship; Love that goes outward is affection; Love that stoops is grace.Ask questions. (Anson Dorrance, UNC Women’s Soccer)
Socrates, the greatest philosopher and teacher of ancient times, used a simple method of imparting wisdom---he phrased everything in a question. In coaching, this Socratic method allows athletes to use their own thought processes to arrive at answers, solutions and alternatives. Further, athletes learn that they are a participant in the team process not just a robot. They learn creative problem solving and thinking outside the box.
You may not have been responsible for your heritage, but you are responsible for your future. (John Wooden, UCLA)
Diversity training on a team is not about celebrating differences as much as it is about not being burdened by them. Taking control of the future puts all athletes on the same page regardless of their heritage.
If you don’t invest very much, then defeat doesn’t hurt very much and winning isn’t very exciting. (Dick Vermeil, NFL)Saving Grace continued...
The real job of a coach is motivating players, creating within them the intensity to care about the outcome of a team effort as well as an individual effort. Without the intensity, the effort is mediocre, and the outcome is meaningless.
An army of deer led by a lion will defeat an army of lions led by a deer. (Calvin Hill, NFL)
Leadership, especially of young athletes, is essential. They are incapable of leading themselves and look to the coach for direction and inspiration. This is why great coaches will do well every year regardless of the changes in talent level--whether they have an army of lions or deer.