THE COACHING CRAFT BLOG

What coaches usually believe or do Within coaching and education, the phrase “lead by example” is both familiar and largely unquestioned. It is commonly presented as a cornerstone of effective leadership, yet rarely examined in any meaningful depth. For many coaches and educators, leading by example is understood through visible commitment and effort: the star pupil who models good behaviour, the team captain who trains the hardest, or the coach whose energy and presence set

Introduction The landscape of sport coaching is evolving. Where once success was measured by technical expertise and tactical knowledge, today’s most effective coaches are increasingly defined by their ability to connect, communicate, and inspire. In an era marked by psychological awareness, individualisation, and player wellbeing, soft skills  are emerging as the cornerstone of effective coaching practice. Research consistently highlights that coaching effectiveness extends

Leadership within sport is often romanticised – associated with captains delivering rousing speeches or coaches making decisive tactical calls. Yet genuine leadership development runs far deeper. It is not simply about authority, charisma, or results, but about the consistent behaviours, communication, and environments that shape individuals into people others want to follow. For coaches, the challenge lies in moving beyond technical instruction to deliberately cultivate lead

By Dylan Villalobos, Director of TheCoachingMindsetOrg In sport and education, ego often presents itself as ambition, confidence, or leadership—yet beneath the surface, it can quietly restrict our capacity to learn, adapt, and serve others. Ryan Holiday’s Ego Is The Enemy (2016) offers a compelling philosophical lens for understanding this dynamic, but its ideas also align with long-standing principles in sports coaching, pedagogy, and psychology. This article explores how t

The world of sport is in a perpetual state of evolution. From advancements in sports science and psychology to shifts in societal values regarding athlete welfare and inclusivity, the landscape of coaching is more dynamic than ever before. In this rapidly changing environment, the notion that a coach's learning concludes with initial qualifications is not only outdated but detrimental. To remain effective, impactful, and truly excellent, coaches must embrace Continuous Profes

In the dynamic landscape of sports, the role of a coach has traditionally been viewed through the lens of instruction, strategy, and directive leadership. The coach, in this model, is the expert who imparts knowledge, dictates actions, and corrects deficiencies. While this approach has its place, a profound paradigm shift is gaining traction, moving towards what we term "The Coaching Mindset." This transformative approach transcends mere technical instruction, focusing instea

A group of coaches engaged in a collaborative learning session, discussing strategies and sharing insights in a modern conference room overlooking a sports field. The world of sport is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements, shifting demographics, and a greater emphasis on holistic athlete development. For leaders in sports organisations, this dynamic landscape presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. To thrive in the years to come,

In the world of sports, we often equate leadership with the individual wearing the captain's armband. While designated leaders play a crucial role, limiting leadership development to a select few overlooks a wealth of potential within the team. True team success hinges on fostering leadership qualities in every athlete , creating a culture where everyone feels empowered to contribute, inspire, and guide. Why Develop Leadership in All Athletes? There are compelling reasons to

“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become. No single instance will transform your beliefs, but as the votes build up, so does the evidence of your new identity.” The text highlights the impact of our actions on shaping our identity. It suggests that each action we take is like a vote towards becoming the kind of person we aspire to be. While a single action may not immediately transform our beliefs, the cumulative effect of our actions over ti