This article by Bruce E. Brown of Proactive Coaching, from the Life Lessons #1 collection, gathers ten thoughts on character building drawn from recent posts on the Proactive Coaching Facebook page. Topics include John Wooden's nurturing of character, the role of discipline and accountability in team cultures, a letter from athletes to their coach, coaching for significance, and clearly defining what an athlete looks like in your team culture.
Ten Thoughts on Character Building
- Ken Washington on Coach Wooden... "Coach didn't teach character; he nurtured it. He nurtured values just like he nurtured your talent. Honesty, being unselfish, caring about your teammates, a good work ethic were all stressed constantly. He gave respect even when discipline was doled out."
- Discipline is essential in successful team cultures. It provides structure, order, direction, purpose, and focus. Coaches and team leaders must respond to any teammate or coach's undisciplined behavior by holding them accountable. If you do not confront poor behavior then the message is that accountability is not part of the team's values or that it doesn't apply to everyone.