I used to think I wanted to be a coach. I love the game of basketball and being part of a team. Most of all, I know the tremendous platform and influence a coach can have.
I still do a little training and run some camps, and I’m sure I’ll coach my own boys at some point, but I ultimately decided to not pursue coaching as my profession. It wouldn’t have been the best choice for me and my family. I’ve been content and thankful for that decision.
Recently, however, I’ve thought more about coaching. I see how good coaches build strong programs and strong people. I hear how players speak about their lives being changed because of a former coach. I witness how fans and communities revere coaches.
In our culture, coaches possess a unique position of honor. And for many, it’s for good reason. Think about how the best coaches lead their programs.
They cast a vision: Great coaches know where they want to go and can communicate the vision to their team.
They have a plan: Not just a game plan. But every drill in every practice is planned out. Everything has a purpose.
They call out greatness: They don’t just see what is, but they see what could be — and then encourage and challenge their players and teams to go there.
They balance accountability and love: They demand much but also care deeply.
They connect: They don’t just coach up the team. They communicate and connect with the individual players.
They build a program: They create a culture with high standards and develop individuals with high character.
Great coaches are esteemed for all these reasons and more.
I may not have chosen to coach professionally, but God has still called me to coach. He’s even given me a team…my family.
What if we approached leading our families with the same intentionality the best coaches approach leading their teams?
As a dad, I’ll speak more directly to dads. Besides, most moms already embody much of this. They sacrifice and plan and pour into their families. Dads, however, we could use some work. We (me included!) often don’t lead at home like we do in our professions.
The most important team we’ll ever have the privilege of leading is the one at home. And to your kids, you will be the most important coach they’ll ever have.
Go through some of the things great coaches do — cast a vision, develop a plan, call out the greatness — and begin implementing them with your families.
“If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” -Mother Theresa
Leaders lead. Happy Fathers Day to all the dads out there!
