It looks like a return to sport is actually happening! In our lead-up to this exciting time, we have been discussing how we as athletic professionals can best support this transition. We've touched on what to expect from our athletes, where their concerns lie and how we can support them. However, we cannot fully support our athletes without supporting our coaches.
As with our athletes, things are going to look different for coaches. The traditional coaching plan may not be as effective as it has been and may need to be adjusted for the fact that athletes have not been training as they typically have. Coaches may feel a little rusty coming off a season of ups and downs, adjusting to the unknown. It is completely understandable, if not expected, that you will have to give yourself a moment to take stock and shift. Here are some factors we are advising coaches to consider as they return to sport.
In our quest to prepare for the return to sport, we reached out to some coaches to get an idea as to how they are feeling about getting back to it. While most are looking forward to getting in front of their teams, that does not negate the fact that there may be some concerns about what things might look like.
What things will look like?
Will there be starts and stops again?
Will spectators be allowed?
Are masks going to be part of the return?
Will we be able to travel?
While coaches are typically overcome by wanting to ensure their athletes are well, you cannot forget to look after yourselves. Be mindful of where you’re at and how you are feeling. We discussed previously that it is important to allow your players to be where they are at, to allow space for whatever they bring. The same goes for you!
Most importantly - Have a great season and enjoy yourselves!
Watch psychotherapists and Hone founders, Jessica Renney and Paula McQuaid, in this informative webinar as they discuss how you can be a source of support to those who are struggling.