contact: coachwint1@aol.com
We are all capable of change and growth; we just need to know where to begin.
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One question that players have is......
How in the world do you pick a coach?
Everyone want 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.
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 ampro certified ,cpr certified , or have a degree in Physical Education?
A true professional will have at least a cpr certification and an AMPRO certification.
12. Is their interest in your game or in you as well as your game?
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 !
