How to Be a Head Coach

Head coaches are a vital part of any team. From micro soccer to professional sports, the head coach sets the tone and schedule for preparation leading up to a game and the game itself. Becoming a head coach typically requires some skill, expertise or understanding of the game that you will be coaching. Often former players choose to become coaches due to their involvement and understanding of various sports. A head coach is required to wear many hats and can be similar to the position of a manager in business.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hire or put in place quality assistants. Depending on the sport, assistants are typically funded or allowed to work on a volunteer basis. Assistant coaches should be enthusiastic, knowledgeable, able to follow directions and successfully pass a back ground check.

    • 2

      Organize the season and daily activities associated with the program being coached. From tryouts and off-season practice to workouts, scheduling and game day activities the head coach should at least have an outline of specific things he wants. This is necessary so that others can know and understand the overall plan.

    • 3

      Communicate with players, parents, school administrators, teachers, boosters and community members. An open line of communication is an excellent way to build relationships and keep everyone informed. It is also an opportunity to initially and periodically communicate your plans, goals and expectations as a head coach.

    • 4

      Set an example. As a head coach you are the heartbeat of the team. Behavior, language and actions all go into forming an opinion by others. Many players, especially at the high school and lower levels, are very impressionable and may be heavily influenced by an individual in a head coaching position.

    • 5

      Prepare for upcoming games. As a head coach it is necessary to evaluate your opponent and formulate a plan. Matching up players, taking advantage of weaknesses and designing plays that put your players in better positions is part of the planning process. Game practices should be maximized based on the alloted amount of time. The week leading up to a game as well as the game day itself should be planned in advance to make the most of the available time.