by Tyler Brandt, 7secondcoach.com
In a recent conversation with one of my mentee’s I was asked “how were you able to build and maintain such successful programs over the years? Whenever I am asked that question my response is always the same, “If I put them on the line to condition and blew my whistle would they run or revolt?” The next question is always some version of: “What do you mean, you’re the coach, if you’re telling them to run, don’t they have to run?” Crucially, the answer is NO!
It is true that you can hold the mentality that as the coach, manager or leader you are the one with the “power.” However, if that is your mentality, then you are already losing the game! Leading because you have the Power to do so is a very negative and detached leadership style. I associate power brokers with names like Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini, Castro and other dictatorial leaders. When power is asserted, fear is the response. That fear is always used to coerce and control not inspire and involve! Leaders who use Power don’t require intrinsic belief in the cause because they have no problem cutting off your hand to force you to follow their rules. This always leads to a revolution against the leader.
My guiding light was always trying to make sure that I was leading my teams and people in a way that they knew I was always doing what was in their best interest. That does not mean they always liked what I had to say or what I asked them to do, but, they knew it would help them reach their goals and dreams. If they chose the latter from the question, what would I be left with? The answer is a whistle and no one to blow it for.
As I look back on my 23 year coaching career, I realize that society, kids, parents and perspective changed, but one thing never has – The Athletes Desire to Contribute! Each athlete will contribute differently but they all want to contribute to the team so they can be part of something awesome. Some will do that by being superstars and some by keeping the team G.P.A. up. It is critical that you as the coach or leader recognize those differences and build champions out of them all in everything that is important to them.
As you look at the messaging in your annual recruiting plan, your team rules and regulations, your working philosophy document and so on, is the focus of your program adding value to everyone? Your gym is old – Awesome – what’s the positive for each student-athlete. Your budget is not very big – Awesome – how is that positive for each student-athlete. The list goes on and on, but the message stays the same, what will you deliver to the athletes on your team that is more important than buildings or bathrooms?
Connect at a level that transcends the physical appearance of your college or high school or office. Relate to your team in a way that foregoes time and becomes timeless. Be in the moment with them, stand tall in their fight, dig deep in their foxhole and it won’t matter what shape your weight room is in or how far away from home the college is or how many losses you’ve had in the past. You will build a collective team committed fighters that will not stop until the goal has been reached!!
If you would like to learn how to do that in your program, please contact coach Brandt at tyler@7secondcoach.com or 480-388-6984.