Raising the Standards

In my opinion too many coaches are accepting sub-standard levels of behaviour, respect, practice and training levels, competitiveness, attitude, mental application, fitness, knowledge of the game etc…from their players!!!

So why are some coaches able to produce quality juniors and world class players? Apart from being exceptional coaches, they refuse to tolerate low standards and respect from their players. They’re tough but fair and if you want to work hard, practice and learn then these coaches will help you reach your potential. These coaches don’t have time for primadonnas who show a lack of respect when they turn away when your talking to them, who have a lack of respect for the game of squash or the environment and players around them and act as if you know it all, this is the time when the best coaches open the door and ask the player to leave the court!!!! No questions……just go, you’re not worth the time!!!!

If we as coaches are to raise the standards of players then we have to start setting the bar on standards a lot higher!!!!

How do we do this?
1. Lead
Lead your programme, create an environment in which to inspire your players and your the team of Full or Part-time and volunteer coaches.

2. Educate
Make sure that your players and your team of coaches are up to date with whats happening in the world of squash (Squash Websites). Coaches and young players should watch world class squash as often as possible. (Inspire your players and coaches) Attend Coach Workshops, grow your knowledge of the game by learning, watching and listening to other coaches and also offering up your own ideas.

3. Setting the standards
It’s really important that elite coaches are used to educate beginners and set the standards to new young players from day one, technique, tactics, behaviour, attitude, mental application etc……!!

4. Challenge
From day one, all players should be constantly challenged, testing their ability by setting skills tests, fitness tests, and match play results. If a player acheives the level that is expected, no matter how old they are, they move up to the next level.

5. Create Hunger
Junior Players should not be funded, they must earn the rewards by hard work and perseverance, young players should want to compete, train, practice whether they were funded or not.

6. Environment
If a new player walks in to a squash club and observes all of the young players on court working hard, listening, being respectful with a coach inspiring them, then you have a good chance that the new player will understand what is expected and follow.