The Human behind the Coach

Last week, a good friend shared something with me that kept me thinking. He pointed out that while we often emphasise positive coaching with the children we work with, we rarely consider whether the coach has positive people supporting them. I’ve noticed that coaches are often seen as strong, dependable leaders who are expected to be emotionless. However, it’s crucial to remember that coaches are also human beings who face many challenges and stresses that can significantly impact their well-being. Understanding this is essential because it helps us appreciate the pressures they deal with and why supporting them as individuals is just as important as supporting their professional roles.

Burnout and Stress

Burnout is a common issue among coaches. The emotional and physical demands of the role can leave them feeling drained. Many coaches experience burnout due to the constant pressure they face—whether it’s managing training sessions, selecting players, dealing with parents, or adhering to their club’s structures. I still vividly remember being at Anfield, watching Liverpool play Brighton. During halftime, instead of fully enjoying the atmosphere, I found myself checking match call-ups on my phone because some parents were concerned their children hadn’t been selected in recent weeks. Additionally, organisational changes, such as new management or shifts in team direction, can leave coaches feeling out of place, sometimes prompting them to leave.

Balancing Work, Football, and Life

Coaching demands a significant amount of time and energy, often at the expense of personal and family life. Many coaches struggle to balance their work with their personal lives. The demands of coaching can strain personal relationships, leading some coaches to step down. The time commitment required to coach effectively often forces them to reconsider their priorities, with some opting to focus more on their families than their careers. This is especially true in Malta, where most coaches are part-timers. It’s not just about work-life balance, but as a good friend once said to me: it’s not work life balance, but work, football, and life balance.

It’s important to recognise that coaches are not just professionals; they are people with their own struggles and challenges. They face significant pressures, from burnout and stress to balancing work with personal life, all while managing their health and career development. As a sports community, we need to support coaches as individuals, not just as leaders, to help create a more sustainable and supportive environment for those who dedicate their lives to guiding and inspiring others.

So before sending a message to the coach at 9:30 p.m. on a Sunday, remember that they need time to unwind too.