The District of Columbia Coaches Association is a non-profit organization created to promote the understanding of the athlete as he / she relates to the coaches, athletics and schools. We endeavor to meet the needs of all DCIAA sports by aiding in the Individual Sport. In addition we have secured a representative membership of coaches in the hope of developing better communication among schools, coaches and athletes. Our organization also strives to promote good fellowship and social contacts among coaches.
What is a Coach?
Selfless attitude. Must understand and accept that it ain't about him or his coaching staff, but about the guys and gals working on the field or court.
Leadership skills. Like a good battle tested soldier, he must get them to do things they are not aware that they can do. For those of you that played, remember the first two a day workout? You had no idea you could run 20 straight 100 yard wind sprints without passing out until you had no choice... or the first time you found yourself in the 4th quarter with time running out and had one more shot to score to win it.
Unquestionable ethics. There are plenty of chances to do the wrong thing in this position. The true test is being able to do the right thing even when it doesn't benefit you or the team. Teaching that it is just as important to hold you head high in defeat as it is in winning.
Knowledge of the game and Vision. Many of you likely think that this belongs at the top of the list. I beg to differ. Without #1-#3, #4 doesn't matter. I've seen a lot of coaches who put 1-3 at the bottom of the list or take them off all together and very few of them are still coaching today. Many will argue the order I've put these in, but few will argue the necessity for these qualities in any adult who leads our youth in any sport or activity. I can only imagine the pressure and politics for a High School Coach or AD, but that does not relieve them of the responsibility for teaching our young men and women that above all else, you have to be able look at yourself in the mirror when it is all said and done. Those that have paid the price to teach the lessons and those that have been the benefactor of that teaching will rest easy knowing that they can be proud of who they are and in some small way, relate that to a guy with a whistle around his neck and a ballcap on that kept telling you "You can do it", until finally you believed him. How many people in your life can your look up to and call "Coach"?
