Perhaps the greatest opportunity we often miss as coaches is how captains are chosen and trained. Because the role of “captain” is a job assignment, there should be a job description for the position, an application and interview process. After the process of choosing captains there should be ongoing leadership training. What is needed on a team is clearly defined responsibilities and the authority to fulfill those responsibilities. The most important lesson that needs to be modeled and taught is that the primary responsibility of the captain is to serve the team and model the attitude and effort you are looking for in the rest of the team. All leadership is learned. Create a process that identifies the right ones (not the best ones) and then teach them the skills and attributes needed to lead/serve well.
Strategy Overview
The more thorough the training, the greater the return on investment of time and resources. When possible, weekly meetings with the captains/leaders to go through leadership lessons is an ideal situation.
Recommended Resources:
- Captains – 7 Ways to Lead Your Team
- Habitudes Series (Values-based or faith-based)
- The Team Captain’s Leadership Manual
Responses