This note describes the stages a coach moves through over a career. The goal is to shorten the first two stages, reach significance, and stay away from the last two.
First Years
This is going to be so fun — I loved playing this game and I can't wait to teach the players all I know. Whoa — what have I gotten into? There are so many things to deal with. I thought I knew everything; now I am not sure I know anything — different personalities, dealing with parents, how come everyone doesn't like me? Referees. I thought everyone wanted to be part of a team. How do I keep them all happy? No, you do not get equal playing time. I know he was an all-star in Little League. New practice plans every day — how come they aren't all motivated like I was? Parents can't see beyond their own kids. Survival — why am I so tired when the season ends? What are we going to do in the off-season? Some survive by being too close to players, not demanding enough, not leading; some survive by being overly forceful, confusing demanding with demeaning — forced control.