Begin with Beliefs

Everything we do as coaches (teachers) is based on our beliefs - we must examine these questions regularly - what do I believe about myself as a coach; what do I believe about my players; and, what do I believe about the great game I coach and they play? Always present is my awareness about the roles and responsibilities of the parents of my players. All of the decisions I make on the practice field and on the playing field are based on my beliefs and my values. It's a kind of four-legged stool; all of the legs have to be of equal length.

Why did I have my kids come to the game in neat, clean uniforms? I did that because I believe that clean uniforms raises the self-esteem of my players; I believe that clean uniforms win respect from parents, umpires, spectators, and opponents; I believe that clean uniforms express respect for the Game; and I believe that wearing clean uniforms helps my team play better and win more games.

Here is my personal philosophy that I have developed in my teaching and coaching career. These are my beliefs - you are welcome to adopt them, reject them, revise them, or whatever:

Belief #1 - I love to coach and I love to win and I will coach and win only within the bounds of my beliefs about myself, about my players, and about the Game.

Belief #2 - As the coach, I act as a caring guide and resource person who is committed to assisting each player in growing as a learner, as a player, and as a unique person.

Belief #3 - I believe that players learn to play by playing. Any player who comes to practice faithfully, is present at the games, is interested in being part of the team will be a member of the team, that is, he will not be 'cut.'

Belief #4 - I believe that this team has to be an important part of the life of each of my players, however I must keep this in perspective. I must have respect for the other areas of the players' lives; their home, family, school, and other valued activities, such as hobbies and music lessons.

Belief #5 - While it is possible that some of my players could go on to 'higher' levels of play; high school, college, even the Majors; I believe my task is to help them right now, in terms of their present needs and growth.

Belief #6- I believe that my players and I are on the same team. I reject any kind of adversarial, me against them, relationship.

Belief #7 - I believe that mutual respect is always appropriate and essential. I must model this by having respect for each of my players and for myself. Also, I must be an example of other values I subscribe to, such as honesty, good sportsmanship, and fairness.

Belief #8 - I believe that parents are partners with me in helping children grow and learn in this Game.

Belief #9 - I believe that The Game, whichever one it is, is a great game; if it weren't it would have faded away a long time ago. It has great integrity -- it has a wholesome quality about it that the players know that playing it is an adventure, a great experience.