Connection, Engagement, Inspiration

Three Big Ideas:

1. Most coaching failures happen because we focus on the wrong things
2. BUT 3 simple words can shift everything—fast
3. When you get the foundation right, performance follows

The 3 Words That Will Transform Your Coaching

Connection. Engagement. Inspiration.

These aren’t fluffy buzzwords. They’re the core drivers of performance and retention—and the reason most young athletes either flourish or fade.

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CONNECTION: People First, Performance Follows

Start seeing athletes as people not projects

Ask them:

1. “How’s school?”
2. “What are you excited about right now?”
3. “What’s going on outside sport?”

When athletes feel seen, they show up with more energy, focus, and trust.

Show up early and have one real conversation before every session.

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ENGAGEMENT: Involve, Don’t Just Instruct

Don’t just tell athletes what to do. Ask for their input. Give them ownership.

Let them:

1. Choose between two drills
2. Set mini team goals
3. Problem-solve in sessions

When athletes are part of the process, they’ll give more than you can ever demand.

Ask, “What do you want to get out of today?” Then build from there.

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INSPIRATION: Believe Bigger Than They Do

Forget speeches and hype.

Real inspiration is about seeing potential in them they don’t yet see in themselves. Tell them what you admire about their effort, attitude, or growth.

Spot one act of character or commitment today—and name it out loud.

When athletes feel seen and involved, they become self-motivated, resilient, and ready to grow.

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Try this in your next session:

1. Connect: Have one meaningful, non-sport conversation
2. Engage: Let athletes help shape one part of the session
3. Inspire: Give one specific, positive comment about who they are—not just what they did

Ideas from here

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