Module Summary

The Coach Development Model

Before we look at what makes a good CA, let’s consider where the role fits into the overall Coach Development Model (CDM), also known as the Coaching Development Pathway or SO Coaching Ladder.

• Head Coach
• Coach
• Coaching Assistant
• Sport Assistant

The CDM is a framework which maps out the typical progression for a coach through their coaching life with SO. It is not a rigid plan, but it can help give you an idea of how you might progress as a coach in Special Olympics.

What's a coaching philosophy?

A coaching philosophy is like a summary of your values, helping to make your behaviour and decisions as a coach more consistent. A coaching philosophy answers the question, “What do you stand for as a coach?” and is most effective when applied to the needs of a specific team or athlete. In this case it’s called an “athlete-centred coaching philosophy”.

Developing your own coaching philosophy will help you to be a purpose-driven coach, so why not give it a try?

What’s the role of a Coaching Assistant?

A CA is a vital part of the overall coaching team.

Supporting the Head Coach

As a Coaching Assistant you should be a key support to the Head Coach, and although the Head Coach will have ultimate responsibility for the overall planning and execution of training sessions and seasons, you also play a key role in the delivery of these plans. This includes ensuring that each of your athletes has the opportunity to achieve their potential, to be challenged, to experience success and the joy of sport.

Roles and duties

As a Coaching Assistant, your roles and duties will typically include:

• Coaching sports skills
• Planning sessions
• Delivering elements of the session
• Team coaching (working with other coaches)
• Observation and feedback to athletes
• Communicating effectively
• Caring about the athletes and their development.

Speak up

These are just a few of the many and varied roles you may play to a greater or lesser degree as a Coaching Assistant. Remember that you are ultimately responsible to the Head Coach. You should support their plan but do not be afraid to question it or make suggestions if you think there is value in another approach.

Good coach vs bad coach

The way you act as a coach will affect the lives and careers of your athletes, so it’s important to adopt the appropriate skills and qualities in your sessions. Unfortunately, not every coach is a good one. For each of the following skills/qualities below, decide whether they would generally belong to a good coach or a bad coach.