Philosophy

Our Philosophy in Coaching and Mentoring

There is no greater call we can aspire to than to be the tool that God uses to unlock an individual’s potential.

Athletic Mission Statement

The Points to the Cross Archery Club and team exists to provide a recreational and competitive sports program that challenges student athletes (young and old) spiritually/emotionally, physically, and mentally, by teaching life principles that will help guide the student athlete to be productive and responsible not only during “training”, but throughout their life. Our coaching or teaching should affect not only the athlete (but those in their lives such as parents and/or spouses, siblings and even children) to a point that when the athlete moves out of our system for whatever reason, school, employment, other sports or interests, family issues, even level of training available, – they should be able to take with them a knowledge, enjoyment, and memory of the sport that in the future will cause them to “pick it up again”, even become coaches or teachers themselves, and/or be able to positively encourage others to give it a try.

Philosophy

The PTTC sports program desires to engage athletes in a balanced environment of competition and a positive athletic experience that is marked with discipline, tradition, social activity, fellowship, and respect. Although winning is an important part of our programs it is NOT priority in determining or measuring an athlete’s success.

A coach can be many “things” to many different people. A coach is a mentor, teacher, and role model. Most of all a coach must be positive. A positive coach possesses the following traits:

Puts the athlete first

A positive coach wants to win but understands that he is an educator first and the development of his athlete is his top priority. He avoids thinking the game is about him rather than the players. He should have an unwavering commitment to what is best for the athletes.

Develops character and skills

A coach looks at wins and losses as as teachable moments to build on self-confidence and positive character traits such as discipline, self-motivation, self-worth and an excitement for life. The desire to see the athlete learn and the ability to effectively improve their skill is the key to an effective coaching program.

Sets realistic goals

A good coach focuses on effort rather than outcome; sets standards of continuous learning and improvement for the athletes; encourages and inspires the athletes, regardless of their skill level to strive to get better without threatening them through fear, intimidation or shame.

Creates a partnership with the players

A positive coach involves team members in determining team rules; recognizes that good communication is crucial to effective relationships with players; develops appropriate relationships based on respect, care and character.

Treasures the game

A positive coach feels an obligation to the sport they coach; loves the sport and shares that love and enjoyment with the athletes; respects the opponents, recognizing that a worthy opponent will push the team to do their best.

There is no level where, as a coach, you cease teaching the sport. As long as you teach, teach in a positive manner. You will produce the best players, and ultimately, the best results.

Your approach should be educationally sound

 Your drills should serve a purpose and not merely used for “killing” time. They should be structured to provide the necessary repetition for each athlete and should be relative to the athlete’s ability level.

Your approach should be appropriate for your athletes

You may learn a lot of new offenses and defenses and they may be excellent systems, but are they suited for your athlete(s)? Use an approach that is developmentally appropriate to your athlete(s).

Your philosophy must be ethical

 In timed sports for example, many coaches instruct their athletes to fake an injury in order to stop the clock. This is unethical. Consider what you do in all aspects of coaching. Coaching from an ethical standpoint is extremely important. Remember, you are a role model.

Stick to your philosophy

 Most coaches, especially on the high school level, have to develop the talent on hand. There may be some years in which the athletes may not possess the ability or skill to fit into your philosophy. You cannot change the athlete, but you can alter your approach.

Is there a better way of doing what you are doing

 Apply this question regarding all aspects of your coaching philosophy-the offense, defense, motivation or your athletes, etc. Keep an open mind. Learning should be a life-long pursuit and this should definitely apply to your coaching philosophy.

Explain why you do the things you do

 To instruct and to motivate your athletes, you have to justify what you do. Can you? You better be able to. The days of just simply saying, “Well, this is the way we are going to do it,” are long gone. There is no way that you can justify anything associated with your program or team to athletes and parents without an explanation.

Your coaching philosophy should be compatible with your personality:

Are you a risk taker? Patient or impatient? Deliberate or aggressive? You will be more successful if your philosophy and personality are both in sync.

Sportsmanlike conduct should be a top priority involved with your philosophy

 There are certain situations in some “games”, which could be considered un-sportsman like by opponents, officials and fans. Running up the score or “fudging” your score, taunting, mocking, gossip, or just plain “cockiness”.  If any of these exist within any coaching approach a determination may have to be made to make changes, or step aside from coaching for a season.