Narrative Call to Action
Speak Volumes Through Recognition
Recognition programs for coaches who show commitment and make an impact are essential. Publicly celebrating coaches through awards, certificates, and special events builds a sense of pride, reinforces values, and helps coaches feel seen. It also lets them know they’re doing a great job. These gestures go a long way in keeping coaches motivated and showing others what coaching is really about.
→What this looks like when we get it right: Coaches are regularly recognized and celebrated for their contributions and impact on kids’ lives, ultimately making them feel great about their efforts and motivated to keep it up.
→Who can drive this change? Program Operators; Sports Governance; Government; Pro/College Sports; Event Organizers; Gyms & Sports Facilities; Technology Solutions, including coaching apps
Why This Issue
Recognition is more than a pat on the back. It’s a powerful narrative tool that can shift how society sees coaching and who sees themselves in the role.
In youth sports, where most coaches volunteer their time and energy, public recognition is essential. Importantly, these stories are what invite others in.
Getting Started
Recognize coaches for more than winning. What you celebrate shapes your culture. To change the narrative on coaching, recognize coaches in a variety of ways – for effort and improvement, impact, desire to learn, continuity, longevity, and the personal impact on just one child. Expanding how we celebrate and honoring coaches changes the narrative on what is important. And as an added benefit, every coach has the ability to be recognized when we expand the categories of recognition beyond winning.
Build community by celebrating coaches. Celebrating coaches in front of peers, families, and athletes creates a sense of belonging, pride, and motivation. It could be award ceremonies, social media spotlights, video testimonials, or anything else. These moments of recognition have ripple effects that keep current coaches engaged and inspire new ones to join.
Game Changing Content
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Great Coaching Is More Than X’s and O’s | Stories of Olympic athletes celebrating coaches behind the scenes, and recognizing the impact on their lives. |
| USOPC Coach of the Year Awards | Recognition program from the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee. |