“It’s non-stop communication. I think a bigger portion of what we do in this role is communication. You’ve got to be able to handle people better than anything else that you do. You could be the most talented manual therapist, the best coach from an X’s and O’s standpoint, and the best data analyst who has the most research out there, but you must communicate effectively, and you must manage people effectively.”
Tony Katzenmeier
Professional Athlete Athletic Trainer
As stated by Tony, communication is crucial for anyone working in sports. You’ve got to be able to “handle” people. Handle may sound like a bad word, implying they’re difficult. I don’t think that’s the intent here, but more “manage,” as he later states. And that comes from excellent communication.
If you’ve read volume one of this book, or even within this book, you know our role is so much more than the knowledge we have about their sport or program. Tactics and training are important, but other skills are so much more important. I know nothing about water polo beyond some clips from the Olympics. Could I coach water polo? Absolutely, yes, if I have the qualities that make a great coach.
Training and strategy can be learned. And in high-performance sports, the athlete is less likely to need a tactician or coach. Legendary tennis hall-of-famer Steffi Graf basically said as much when she was competing. She knew what to do. What most athletes really need is someone in their corner! Communication is a massive part of being that person.
Ask Yourself
Do I consider myself a good communicator? Do others?
Can I communicate well in multiple ways (e.g., body language, verbal, written)?
How could I improve my communication skills?
Excerpt taken from Reflections on the Coaching Life Volume 2.