Coaches play a pivotal role in the lives of young athletes. Aside from teaching skills and preparing for games, they influence how athletes face challenges, and build confidence and emotional resilience. A coach’s approach significantly impacts an athlete’s self-esteem, stress management, and love of the sport. For many young athletes, coaches become trusted role models, spending hours together during practices and games.
“A coach’s attitude can greatly impact athletes’ mental health, especially surrounding the sport. If the coach has a positive attitude, it’s going to promote confidence in the player, versus a negative attitude, which can make kids anxious. If the coach has a negative attitude, it can make the player not want to go to practice or games and to lose interest in the sport. If this happens at a young age, this can carry on for the rest of their lives. A coach’s negative attitude can really impact their future in the sport,” says Jaclyn Daugherty, CRNP, medical director at Sheppard Pratt’s Outpatient Mental Health Center in Hagerstown and a cheerleading coach.
Coaching styles that foster mental health
“Creating a positive environment at practices and games strengthens the coach-player relationship,” says Daugherty. She emphasizes focusing on an athlete’s effort and progress rather than outcomes. “Don’t focus on the team’s record but rather how they progressed throughout the season,” she adds. Highlighting progress and reinforcing positive behaviors helps build emotional security and confidence.
Daugherty also suggests coaches encourage athletes to identify their strengths, goals, and values within the sport. Focusing on growth rather than results allows athletes to thrive. “Helping athletes identify strengths and focusing on growth versus outcomes sets the tone for a supportive relationship,” she says. Open communication is equally important. Encouraging athletes to share their challenges ensures they feel heard and valued.
Practical ways coaches can support athlete well-being
Coaches can create a supportive team culture by teaching values like empathy, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Setting realistic goals and focusing on effort and growth rather than outcomes promotes a positive mindset. “Set goals at the start of the season and track progression,” advises Daugherty.
Effective communication is also key. “Active listening, validating their feelings, maybe they’re just having a bad day, or they got a bad grade on the test,” says Daugherty. “Being approachable and communicative gives coaches the chance to provide important emotional support.”