You Want to Know Why We Win?

By: Teri Clemens and Jenny McDowell

Originally Published in: The Volleyball Drill Book 

Provided by: Human Kinetics

Winning coaches are asked a lot of questions, and one of the most frequently asked questions is "Why do you win?" Sharing the answer to that question with players allows them to see through the coach's window - to see themselves through it!

Purpose

To review with players the elements of a winning program and invite discussion as to how your team can achieve success.

Setup

The coach creates an outline or list that includes many of the responsibilities of running a volleyball program. Here is a sample outline to get you started:

It Starts With the Coach

• Passion for the sport
• Knowledge of the sport
• Ability to communicate and teach

Recruiting Assistants and Players

• Ability to read the game and personalize it
• Ability to relate well to others
• Ability to assess character and ability

Administrating and Organizing

• Preparing, planning, and prioritizing professionally
• Deciding on offensive and defensive systems
• Selecting players and their assignments
• Training, scheduling, strategizing

Coaching

• Determining and communicating a philosophy and style
• Setting and demanding high standards
• Developing volleyball skills and life skills
• Teaching, inspiring, and encouraging players to be competitive
• Being creative in designing practices and motivating players
• Setting up off-court activities for bonding and fun

Communicating

• Saying it like it is
• Teaching players that winning is the outcome, not the focus
• Establishing mutual respect
• Presenting a positive attitude and behavior
• Making it clear that everyone on the team is special
• Embracing change, advancement, and achievement

Public Relations

• Serving the community, especially youth
• Setting up special appearances for coaches and players
• Promoting match attendance
• Educating players about public relations

Run the Drill

1. Players sit in circles of 3-4 players. Each is assigned some of the tasks on the list.
2. One player from each group writes down the ideas the players generate about what is involved in each task. For example, for embracing change, advancement, and achievement; players might list ideas such as the following: In order to be a better team, we need to try new skills, new drills, and believe in our coach. In order to win conference, we must practice harder than the others.

Coaching Points

• Focus on the roles you feel players are most in need of recognizing. Emphasize the information that is most likely to benefit your players.
• Invite players to share their thoughts during the outlined discussion.