How To Make Your Athlete More COACHABLE!!!

Coachability – An athlete’s willingness and ability learn, and apply taught skills and concepts. Coachability is arguably the single most important intangible skill any athlete can possess. Kids who are students of the game, and sponges absorbing every constructive criticism will always find success. Remember, the foundation of coach ability is, and will always be a positive ATTITUDE!

Here’s a few simple ways to help cultivate this skill:

• Preparation
  • Make sure your athlete is prepared for practice and games. They’re well rested, well fed, and ready to “start on time”. Nothing is more frustrating from a coach’s perspective when you work with athletes that you feel are wasting their (and your) time.

• Productive “Hockey Talk”
  • This is not an interrogation! Simply ask: “What did coach say” or “does that make sense”, “What did you learn today at practice”.

• Encourage Learning
  • Remind your athlete that each and every practice and game is a great opportunity to learn and grow. Hold them accountable.

Coachability expands well beyond the ice rink! This is a tremendous life skill that leads to a happy, productive, fulfilling life!