The great coaches are playing the most valuable one.
“Average coaches care about how kids perform on the field for job security reasons.
Good coaches care about kids on and off the field.
Great coaches are intentional about making regular, strategic investments in kids that will aid in their ability to tackle life today and beyond.”
-Ray Zingler on Twitter
I regularly talk about the big picture with kids.
I care far more about empowering young athletes to be strong mentally and physically, far more than I care about ‘programming’ & the highly political landscape of youth athletics they are being forced to deal with.
But what goes into making the big picture?
It’s the tens, hundreds, and thousands of small pictures that are often undervalued.
Understanding this has really helped to enhance my mentorship strategies.
That seemingly small micro-interaction that doesn’t seem like too big of a deal and can ‘wait until tomorrow’ could quite possibly be the one interaction that opens the door to deeper connection.
Deeper connection that can heavily influence the trajectory of a child’s life.
It sounds dramatic and that’s because it is.
I’ve learned not to put it off. I’ve learned to look for platforms to impact in the most unlikely of times and places. I’ve learned that it’s not about when it is ideal or convenient for me, but when they might need me the most.
I’m not perfect, but I’m on a relentless pursuit to be there for them during those “small picture” moments.
Because again, the big picture is nothing more than a culmination of small pictures.
Its ashame that most don’t see or understand this.
They’re “too busy” or it can “wait”. Bullsh*t.
If you’re always too busy and putting things off when are you magically going to find the time to strategically invest in kids when they need it most?
When it’s convenient for you?
Too bad that isn’t how it works.
If you are a coach, I applaud you, but I must remind you..
We have a finite amount of time with kids.
Their bandwidth is being stretched further now, with more distractions than ever, than any other time in human history.
Make sure you never forget who you’re coaching.
And if you think it’s about “your sport” or “training” you’ve missed the context of the responsibility by a country mile.
At the root of this gig, you’re coaching not number 17 or the Strong Safety.
You’re coaching Sarah and Eric.
Are you being strategic about ensuring you’re impact on them leaves them in a better place than before they met you?
If not, this coaching thing ain’t for you.
