Coach W. note: Originally this was written a few years ago but I have dusted it off out of the archives to update it. I hate to bring this up but in this day and age I would add background check to the list of things required for coaches. I just completed mine for the USOC. The USOC has been plagued by unethical coaches and parents cannot be too careful. One more thing. With the tough economy top players are now coaches. I see more bad teaching than ever by local legends who win open tournaments and teach mechanics that will physically hurt their students. Just because a player is good, does not mean they do it right!! Look for flat mechanics, hitting out, and proper footwork. Our sport is new; less than 50 years old officially, and it is evolving. Tactics and Strategy are changing also. As the game becomes more athletic, the old "by the book" approach will be less and less effective. Now......just how do you find a good coach? Hard to do as in my opinion there are hundreds of coaches but few good ones. Here is one thing to look for: have they ever taken a player from beginner to national champion? Only a few have, and I am not talking about sliding in when the player is an A player and working them up, I am talking about walking into your club, a total beginner, and winning a national championship with them or having them in at least the hunt for the title. That is hard work, dedication to your players, belief in them, and support for their families. Now on to the coaching keys!!!

We are all capable of change and growth; we just need to know where to begin. - Blaine Lee One question that players have is... How in the world do you pick a coach? Everyone wants to help you. You get done with a match and everyone has advice. I have been there. Who do you listen to? Here are 12 considerations to help you. Tip: # 12 is the most important!

1) Do they need you or do you need them?

I see coaches openly campaigning for students. Why? They don't have any-that's why! My advice....Be careful !!Look for coaches who have built kids from beginners to the top.

2) Do you like them?

Have they ever gone back on their word? Have they ever short-changed someone on money or commitment? Ask around. You really need someone who is honest.

3. Are they loyal?

Have they ever dumped a student to take a higher ranked student? Will they give more time to the perceived better player and thus short-change to lower-ranked athlete?

4. Does the coach change from year to year?

A good coach is always learning and changing. Beware of the 80's coach who has not changed. The game has.

5.Does the coach treat everyone the same?

This sounds right...but it isn't. Not everyone is the same so a good coach changes technique based upon a person's body type and/or physical attributes.The "one way or the highway" system cannot work.

6. Does this coach have a billboard player or players?

A billboard player is someone who has worked with the coach from beginner to top level. A billboard player would be someone you could observe and you could see the techniques the coach will teach being implemented at a higher level. You can also watch your prospective coach work with an athlete during matches.

7. How high are the players ranked that the coach works with?

High ranking does not happen unless the athlete has a high level of ability, a great work ethic, the proper training, and the best coaching.

8. How does a coach react to a win or a loss?

This tells quite a bit about a coach. A professional stays detached, and does not make it personal.

9. Does this coach understand priorities?

A good coach understands the importance of religion, family, work, as well as racquetball and will never mess with that hierarchy.

10. Have you interviewed your coach?

Ask the prospective coach what they think of your game. Ask them how they would attack your shortcomings. Ask them what your strength are. They will work for you so don't be afraid to ask these questions.

11. Is your coach USA Racquetball Instructor certified, CPR certified , first aid certified, or have a degree in Physical Education?

A true professional will have at least a cpr certification and an USAR-IP certification.

12. Is their interest in your game or in you as well as your game?

Most importantly---A good coach tries to develop people more than winning. The last thing to remember here; a good coach cares about your game; a great coach cares about your character and your life more than racquetball development !