Take The Temperature Of Your Locker Room


As a coach you expect to develop a game plan and have your team follow it blindly. However, if you don't know what the players are thinking and feeling, you can’t accurately “plan your plan.” No matter how well-intentioned team members are, egos can still get in the way.  If you do not have a cohesive team then it does not matter how great your plan is your chances for success are slim. 

To keep a handle on the inner climate of your team consider having frequent conversations with your leadership team/captains to find out the temperature in the room. See how you can improve how the game plan and players roles are being communicated. It might hurt to hear when things aren't going great, but it gives you the best chance for success. 

It is equally important to keep in mind that just because someone is a great player, doesn't mean they are the right player for your team. It's tough, but sometimes you must let go of all-stars who don’t fit into the fabric of your championship plan. Don't risk poisoning your locker room by keeping a talented but underutilized, or ill-fitting, player around.  

--The Coaching and Leadership Journal 


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