I’ve been a teacher for a long time.  I’m hard nosed.  I’m creative.  I’m driven.  I’m goal oriented.

Now as I am in the youth development work, it is important to write on the state of change.

Every week I will discuss tactics, climates, challenges, along with tips and lessons on working with young athletes.

What will fluctuate is the fitness level, personality, and goal of athlete.  All will be relevant.

Today I wanted to give my philosophy on coaching young athletes.  

Arguably, I would never consider myself an expert, but I do have an understanding of human behavior.

When it comes to coaching athletes, I have 2 things I am hoping to accomplish.

  1. Create trust.
  2. Instill excellence.

And in this order.

Creating trust is probably the easiest because it is all about the athlete.  The relationship is driven by my interest in their success.  

On the other hand, instilling excellence is much more challenging.  Specifically in a strength training setting.

Athletes are busy and parents are protective.

Now that does not mean I am trying to beat them up as a coach, but as the only person that does not punish for poor performance, I have to be really good at influence.

This involves parent interaction, being present, and being much more interested in the athlete than anyone else.

Weird, right?  

Strength coaches get the least attention and respect, but probably develop an athlete more than most coaches.

In our first 3 blogs, I will be talking about YOUNG athletes.  8-10 year old children that are either pushed by parents to be great, need to get moving because they have got energy to expel, or their parents are trying to instill a sense of health in their athlete.

I start here because it is the easiest age, but most physically demanding as a coach.

If you are out there, reading this and trying to figure out how to get your kiddo moving, this will be a great theme for you!

Let’s take care of our athletes and build some mental resilience along the way!!