Role Model!

Coaches are role models!

Definition of role model - a person who motivates, inspire or assist others to engage in similar behaviour

This is somehting that as been stressed by various sports figures such as Rafael Nadal when in 2012 in a tribute to is coach (Toni), said:

"...everything i have achieved in the game of tennis, all opportunities i have had, are thanks to him. I'm specially grateful to him for having placed so much emphasis from the beginning on making sure I kept my feet on the ground and never come complacent... he pushes me always to improve and do better"

Leading by example is one of the most powerful forms of educating especially when dealing with young impressionable players. It is important that we are aware of this role we have so we can affect our audience in a positive manner.

In order to excel at this second job we take on when teaching, it is important that we consider the following points as parts of the image we send to the kids we work with:

1- Follow the ITF code of ethics for coaches ( https://en.coaching.itftennis.com/resource-centre/code-of-ethics.aspx )

2- Commit to professional and personal development

3- Prepare and plan carefully and thoroughly, the little details matter and a lot!

4- Attend to the way you look

5- Be punctual, courteous, thoughtful and respectful