Everyone knows the saying “success doesn’t happen overnight.” And when it comes to coaching, it couldn’t be more true. Having a winning record, or creating a winning legacy does not happen overnight. It takes always being prepared so you can have more dedicated time with your team. It takes building trust across the program, not just between you and your players. It takes wanting to be there and wanting to help your team grow and succeed every step of the way.
Take it from Coach Steve Collins, his very first year of coaching his team had a 7-14 record. Steve knew that giving up on his team wasn’t an option because he wanted to coach, he wanted to be a leader for his players, and he wanted to create a winning legacy. So instead of walking away from his passion, Steve sat down with his assistant coaches and created the 20 Keys to Winning Championships. And since then, Steve hasn’t coached a losing season.
In this blog, dive into some of Steve’s secrets to winning championships and download Teachhoops x Dr. Dish’s FREE 20 Keys to Winning Championships to start building your own winning legacy!
1. have a short term plan and a long term goal
For a short term plan (think the next 2-3 years), Steve’s secrets are: State it. Write it down. Make it attainable. And most importantly, consistently spend time on it. Steve developed a short term plan with his team for his second season coaching and it was simple; Beat the best team in the league and have a winning record. The more you plan for the short term, the easier it is to plan long term goals for your program, like winning a State Championship or making the tournament. Which Steve was able to accomplish in his 7th year as Head Coach.
2. find the right people
It’s important to find supporting staff that support your short term and long term goals and who also want to be a part of making those things happen. You also want to find people who compliment your coaching style. You want to find other coaches who are knowledgeable and can help your program focus on skill and team development. It’s also important to find the right players, who want to work hard and get better every day.
3. establish well-defining roles
Ask yourself the following:
- What are the roles of the Assistant Coach?
- What are the roles of the Head Coach?
- What are the roles of your players?
- What are the roles of you parents?
- What are the roles of other school faculty/community?
By defining all of the roles of those who could be involved anytime throughout the season, you are prioritizing an unselfish, positive team culture. You are building leaders and encouraging players who are genuinely excited to be playing and working to improve their craft.
4. Trust in your team
Once you’ve established a routine and roles throughout your team, watch how they work together. If you notice that they are picking up speed and executing smoothly, don’t be afraid to let them play. While it’s hard to take a step back, over-coaching and being too involved can do more harm than good. And don’t be hesitant to adjust strategy in those situations. If your team sees that you trust them and feel supported, they will give you that trust and respect back.
5. Embrace the journey
Your program’s success will be gradual! Always remember that, and don’t get caught up on one practice or game. Keep pushing forward, keep executing on your plan, and you will see those results. And remember that whatever actions you take or the attitude you have, your players will follow. Steve embraces being patient and being open to learning from other coaches, and his players. Choosing to have a positive mindset will make every aspect more enjoyable for you and your team.
For all of Steve’s 20 Keys to Winning Championships, download your FREE 20 Keys to Winning guide and start creating your own championship program.
Looking for more coaching resources?
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