7-Day Positive Coaching Environment Challenge

Parents and players: 

Day 1: Observe and Reflect
Reflect on yours or your child's current coaching environment. What makes the coach approachable and positive? How does the coach respond to mistakes? Write down one positive example.

Day 2: Communication Count
Look for examples where the coach encourages open communication and listens to players. Note moments where players feel heard and supported. Share an example with each other

Day 3: Positive Feedback Practice
Identify how the coach gives feedback. Is it constructive and focused on growth rather than just results? What is one positive comment the coach gave recently?

Day 4: Team Spirit Boost
Notice how the coach fosters teamwork and respect among all the players. 

Day 5: Leadership Opportunities
See if the coach creates chances for players to take leadership roles, like leading drills or warm ups. 

Day 6: Celebrate Effort, Not Just Wins
Focus on how the coach celebrates effort, progress, and attitude, not only wins.

Day 7: Coach Appreciation
Reflect on how coaches’ behaviours shape the sports experience. Write a thank-you note or record a short message acknowledging the positive impact a coach has had on your child’s sports journey.

This is a great opportunity to see if you or your child is working in a supportive and nurturing environment, or whether you are actually playing under more stress than you need to be! But until you start to look out for these behaviours, you may not even know! So take notice and see how things go.

Good luck!