1. Remove sarcasm from your presentation style – don’t tease or embarrass your players. Sarcasm and public displays of criticism are negative. Negativity breeds anger, resentment, and frustration. These emotions and feelings create stress that can lead to injury, illness, and loss, not to mention players, especially young athletes, may never want to play sports again. Give your players positive feedback on what they are doing well.

2. Focus on the process: Stop focusing on winning or losing. Focusing on the result creates a tense, uncomfortable and ineffective environment. Focus on the moment. The most important point, or shot, or play is the following.

3. Stop negative interactions: Players who respond to negative coaching may not allow themselves to win. When players have been reinforced with negative feedback, they may simply lose in order to continue receiving negative feedback from the coach. It is a vicious circle. Break the negative cycle. Get your players to respond to positive feedback.

4. Look for players who can accept positive feedback and compliments. People who accept positive feedback and are able to say “thank you” after receiving a compliment are more likely to perform when needed. Teach your players to accept keys.

5. Act calm and confident. Have a calm tone of voice, speak softer and slower, and smile. What you say and how you say it will make your players stronger and more confident or weaker and fearful. Take a look at your training style. Commit to being a positive, calm, caring, and confident coach.

These five tips will help you build teams that have more fun, learn more easily, and win more often.

Anne Smith, Ph.D. Copyright 2006 All rights reserved.