The qualities of an effective coach are many.

I have yet to meet a coach whos qualities are all things to all age groups, playing levels, men, women etc. Some coaches possess qualities that are suited to young players, some to older, or to elite, or grassroots, yet these same qualities may not be suitable across the entire player age or ability spectrum. We all bring different qualities and that is good. We need to make the most of our attributes, be consistent and apply them well.

The real alchemy occurs when we manage to successfully combine our qualities with our fellow coaches qualities for the benefit of all of our players. This sharing of ideas and responsibilities is a conscious movement that can have a profound effect on how we view the game, and therefore, how we plan and then lead our players in practices and games.

Consider the following coach descriptors and ask if they apply to you in your present coaching role.