Effective coaching goes beyond drills and wins; it’s about instilling accountability in athletes, teaching them to take charge of their own success. Kevin Dresser, a titan in college wrestling, distills this essence into a powerful coaching philosophy:
“Coaching isn’t about holding people accountable; it’s about teaching them to hold themselves accountable”
This article breaks down five practical ways to implement this philosophy, providing coaches with strategies to empower athletes to own their progress, develop resilience, and achieve their highest potential. Here’s how to make accountability a cornerstone of your coaching approach.
1. Set Clear Expectations
Clarity is the first step to accountability. Begin by setting clear, achievable goals for your athletes, both as individuals and as a team. These objectives should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Communicate these expectations regularly and ensure each athlete understands their role in achieving them. Just as Coach Dresser emphasizes personal responsibility in his philosophy, make it clear that each athlete’s contribution is crucial to the team’s success.
2. Foster a Culture of Self-Evaluation
Encourage athletes to reflect on their own performances. After competitions and practice sessions, guide them in self-evaluation processes. Ask them to identify what they did well and areas for improvement. This practice not only helps in setting personal goals but also in developing a mindset geared towards continuous improvement. By doing so, athletes learn to hold themselves accountable for their growth and development.
3. Implement Regular Check-Ins
Accountability thrives on feedback. Schedule regular one-on-one check-ins with your athletes to discuss their progress towards their goals. Use these sessions to celebrate successes, address challenges, and adjust goals as necessary. This consistent feedback loop reinforces the idea that accountability is not just a one-time check but a continuous journey of self-improvement.
4. Lead by Example
Be the embodiment of the accountability you wish to see in your athletes. Coach Dresser’s words are powerful because they reflect his own approach to coaching and life. Show your athletes that you, too, are willing to hold yourself accountable, whether it’s admitting a mistake, working to improve your own coaching strategies, or setting and pursuing personal goals. Your actions will serve as a powerful model for your athletes.
5. Create Accountability Partnerships
Strength lies in numbers. Pair athletes with accountability partners within the team. These partnerships can provide mutual support, encouragement, and motivation, as well as gentle peer pressure to stay on track towards their goals. Having someone to share the journey with can make the process of holding oneself accountable more manageable and more enjoyable.
“If it is to be, it’s up to me”
The ultimate goal of a coach is not just to lead athletes to victory but to empower them to seize the reins of their own destinies. As we’ve explored strategies to instill self-accountability in athletes, it’s essential to remember that the foundation of great coaching is not in the multitude of victories but in the lasting impact we have on the individuals we guide. The essence of this responsibility is perfectly encapsulated in the timeless words:
“If it is to be, it’s up to me. If not now, when? If not me, who?”
This powerful mantra serves as a beacon for both coach and athlete, reminding us that the path to excellence is paved with personal responsibility and the courage to act. As coaches, our role extends beyond the court, field, or mat; we are mentors, shaping the minds and characters of those who look to us for guidance. Let this quote inspire you to foster an environment where athletes not only strive for success but also understand the value of self-discipline, perseverance, and the strength that comes from within.
Encourage your athletes to embrace this philosophy, to recognize that their success is in their hands, and that the time to act is now. In doing so, you’ll not only develop accountable, resilient individuals but also leave a legacy of empowerment that transcends sports. Remember, the greatest achievements come from the realization that, indeed, if it is to be, it’s up to me.