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

Coaching models occupy a central position within contemporary coach education. From session planning frameworks to behavioural and pedagogical models, they are frequently presented as essential tools for structuring practice, guiding decision-making, and evidencing professional competence. In many qualification pathways, the ability to articulate and apply recognised models is treated as a proxy for coaching expertise. Yet despite their prominence, many coaches report a persi

In the dynamic world of sport, the whistle doesn't signal the end of learning – especially for coaches. Just as athletes continuously refine their skills, sports pedagogy  – the art and science of coaching and teaching in sport – is constantly evolving. New research emerges on everything from athlete development models and mental well-being to effective skill acquisition and inclusive practices. At The Coaching Mindset, we champion a continuous learning journey  for every coa

At The Coaching Mindset, we believe in nurturing athletes who don't just follow instructions, but truly understand their sport, make informed decisions, and solve problems under pressure. While telling an athlete what to do might get a quick result, it rarely leads to lasting learning or genuine development. This is where the often-underestimated art of questioning  comes in, transforming coaches into facilitators who empower athletes to discover their own solutions. Think of

At The Coaching Mindset, we often talk about developing athletes and coaches, but our vision extends far beyond the confines of the playing field. We firmly believe that sport is one of the most powerful classrooms available to us, a dynamic environment where children and young people don't just learn skills for a game, but life skills and character traits that will serve them for a lifetime. In an age where formal education often focuses heavily on academic outcomes, it's cr

At The Coaching Mindset, we believe that true development in sport, and in life, goes far beyond winning matches. It's about fostering well-rounded individuals who are confident, capable, and connected. A cornerstone of this philosophy, and one we passionately advocate for in the educational sphere, is physical literacy. But what exactly is physical literacy? It's more than just being "good at sport" or "active." It's the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge

One of the biggest challenges in coaching youth sports is the wide range of ages and developmental stages that coaches often work with. What works for a 15-year-old athlete might not be appropriate for a 7-year-old. Effective coaches understand the importance of adapting their coaching strategies to suit the specific needs and characteristics of different age groups. Understanding Developmental Stages: Before diving into specific strategies, it's crucial to have a basic under