This article from Proactive Coaching, written by guest writer John Shindler, a professor at CSULA and former player of Bruce Brown's, explains how athletics shapes overall school climate and achievement. It presents the "psychology of success" framework built on three factors – growth versus fixed-ability orientation, acceptance and belonging versus alienation, and internal versus external locus of control – with practical coaching practices that promote or undermine each.
Introduction
By Guest Writer, John Shindler
Those of us who work in and around school athletics know intuitively that what we do makes a big difference to the school as a whole, and affects the broader school climate. As a former athlete, coach and now school researcher/consultant, I will tell you that your instincts are supported by growing research. What and how we do our jobs as coaches, athletic directors, trainers and athletes will have a profound effect on the entire school.