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What Makes a Good Sports Coach? 7 Powerful Traits Unveiled

good sports coach

As I mentioned in my earlier article about starting this sports blog, I’ve got an offer to do some publishing work for Lithuania’s biggest news portal. Now, the hot topic around here is Kaunas Žalgiris—our national pride and joy—not exactly performing up to expectations. And if you’re a sports fan, you probably already know where the blame lies—yep, it’s the coach. So, I decided to write an article diving into what makes a good sports coach. This will help me answer whether Žalgiris’ current coach, Andrea Trinchieri, should be replaced, or if we just need to sit tight and wait for the results to come.

But since I’m guessing local drama isn’t exactly your thing, let’s get back to my usual scholarly research—looking at the traits that make a good sports coach (yep, another Meter added to the collection—next to Ads, Rivalry, and Hypegenic meters 🙈😅). With all that research, I’ll wrap it up with my verdict on what I think is the best solution from a scientific standpoint. So, let’s dive in!

How I’m Approaching this Research?

One thing that became clear is there’s not much scientific research on what makes a good sports coach—mostly just blog posts. However, there’s plenty of research on leadership, which is obviously crucial for a good coach, so we’ll dig into that as well.

I also did a quick interview with Stefan Hendriks, who holds a Master’s in International Basketball Coaching and Management. His thesis focused on new tools for talent identification in basketball. Stefan has coached in Lithuania’s 3rd division, winning Best Defensive Team, and lately was working as an assistant coach for Donar Groningen in the BNXT League (a joint league between the Netherlands and Belgium).

Now, this isn’t a fully scholarly article, so there are limitations. I could have interviewed more coaches, players, and others in the basketball ecosystem. But based on my own experience and interactions, I believe the core list of traits wouldn’t change much with more interviews.

Finally, there are definitely different types of coaching styles, and we could easily get into debates about whether an underdog team should go for a defensive-minded coach or not. But for now, let’s steer away from the technical side of sports and focus on identifying the signs of a good coach overall. It’s about understanding the qualities that make a coach stand out, regardless of their specific tactical approach.

Scholar Articles on Being a Good Sports Coach

According to McLean and Mallett (2011), a good head coach possesses several key traits that significantly contribute to their success and the well-being of their athletes. These traits include self-determined motivation, where coaches exhibit both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, driving their commitment and satisfaction in their role. Additionally, competence is essential, as coaches who feel competent in their abilities are more likely to stay motivated and effective, particularly in high-performance settings. Another critical trait is relatedness, as successful coaches build strong, supportive relationships with athletes and other stakeholders, which fosters a positive team environment.

Autonomy is equally important, with coaches thriving when they have control over decisions and the direction of their teams, leading to greater job satisfaction and reduced burnout. Furthermore, McLean and Mallett emphasize the importance of psychological need satisfaction—when coaches’ needs for competence, relatedness, and autonomy are met, they are more likely to demonstrate adaptive behaviors and motivate their athletes effectively. A great coach also shows adaptability in behavior, adjusting their approach to meet the evolving needs of athletes, which strengthens team dynamics.

Resilience in competitive environments is also crucial, as coaches must balance both self-determined and non-self-determined motivations to thrive in high-pressure settings. These traits collectively create a foundation for a coach to sustain motivation, handle stress, and lead their team to success.

According to Hardman et al. (2010), the traits that make a good head coach are deeply rooted in virtue ethics and emphasize the importance of both moral and technical development. A good coach exhibits sensitivity towards moral obligations, demonstrating a strong awareness of their ethical duties and ensuring their actions align with moral principles. They also prioritize the moral development of others, recognizing their responsibility to guide athletes not only in developing technical skills but also in cultivating virtues that shape their character.

Judgment and moral decision-making are key, as coaches must make ethical decisions, particularly in challenging situations involving athletes’ well-being. Furthermore, they are committed to the cultivation of moral virtues, actively working to nurture qualities such as honesty, integrity, fairness, and respect in their athletes. Coaches should also engage in reflection and refinement, continually assessing and adjusting their methods to align with ethical principles and foster moral growth. They serve as moral exemplars, modeling high standards of behavior for athletes to emulate, both on and off the field.

Finally, habituation through repetition is crucial, as a coach must understand the importance of consistent practice and repetition in ingraining both technical skills and moral virtues, helping athletes internalize positive habits over time.

According to Jacobs et al. (2014), the traits that make a good head coach are deeply connected to the process of self-reflection and personal growth. Coaches in their study emphasized the importance of learning and practicing continuous reflection to align their behavior with their ideal image of a good coach, or their “telos.” The coaches faced challenges in achieving their ideal coaching approach, particularly in areas related to interpersonal and intrapersonal skills.

They recognized that effective coaching requires not only technical knowledge but also the ability to provide optimal encouragement and learning opportunities for athletes (Cushion et al., 2003, 2006; Denison & Avner, 2011; Gilbert & Trudel, 2005; Werthner & Trudel, 2006). The coaches described difficulties in managing interpersonal relationships, particularly with players and parents, and acknowledged their struggles in dealing with what they perceived as problematic situations. They expressed a desire to be perceived as calmdecisive, and open in communication with their players, revealing the heterogeneity in their definitions of a good coach.

This diversity suggests that the perceived needs of coaches for formal coach education may differ, and a one-size-fits-all system may not meet all their needs (Nelson et al., 2013; Werthner & Trudel, 2006). Despite these varied perceptions, the study found that the practice of critical reflection was a common approach that helped coaches meet their development needs. This process of continuous self-assessment and adjustment is a critical trait for becoming a good coach.

According to Seideman (2011), the traits that make a good head coach go beyond technical expertise and include a strong moral compass and the ability to teach life lessons. A good coach places equal emphasis on character and talent, recognizing that developing a moral identity in athletes is just as important as winning games.

Two of all-time best coaches and leaders – Mike Krzyzewski and Greg Poppovich. | Photo by: NBA.com

Seideman highlights the importance of teaching values through structured lessons, holding athletes to high standards, and demonstrating those standards daily as a model for athletes to emulate. Coaches like Mike Krzyzewski, who emphasize character traits such as respect and humility, and Lou Holtz, who upholds a “do right” rule, show that moral exemplars are essential in coaching.

Seideman also emphasizes that perseverance and the ability to face challenges are crucial lessons that coaches instill in their athletes, often having a lasting impact beyond sports. As seen in the story of Wayman Tisdale, the lessons learned through coaching—such as attitudecoachability, and grace under pressure—can be transformative and help athletes cope with life challenges like illness. Ultimately, the integration of both functional sports skills and moral lessons leads to the development of athletes who are not only better at their sport but also become better people, contributing to their communities and facing life’s adversities with resilience.

Main Traits for a Good Coach

Based on the research and insights from these studies, several key traits consistently emerge that define a good coach:

  • Self-reflection – Continuous self-assessment and improvement are critical for a coach’s development, allowing them to better connect with their athletes and refine their methods.
  • Self-determined motivation – A good coach is driven by a blend of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, which fuels their passion and commitment.
  • Competence – Coaches must feel confident in their abilities, which enhances their effectiveness and their athletes’ success.
  • Relatedness – Building strong relationships with athletes and staff helps create a positive team environment.
  • Autonomy – Having control over decisions and the direction of the team leads to higher job satisfaction and reduces burnout.
  • Moral integrity – Coaches must act with honesty, fairness, and respect, guiding athletes both in sport and in life.
  • Adaptability – A good coach knows how to adjust their approach to meet the evolving needs of their athletes.

Key Traits of a Good Sports Coach According to the International Olympic Committee

If anyone knows what makes a great sports coach, it’s the International Olympic Committee (IOC). They’ve summarized the key traits of an exceptional coach, which go beyond simply knowing the sport. Here’s a quick rundown of what the IOC has to say:

  1. Understands the Sport and Leads by Example
    A great coach must deeply understand the sport, from its fundamentals to the most advanced tactics and strategies. It’s not just about playing experience, but also about planning, preparing, and providing a structured environment that allows athletes to succeed. Coaches should be qualified—though not necessarily at the highest level—but they should hold recognized qualifications that show they know their stuff. As the IOC puts it: Plan – Prepare – Rehearse – Perform – Compete. A coach who leads by example is someone athletes can trust and look up to.
  2. Sponge for Knowledge, Profound Thinker, Visionary
    Good coaches don’t just stop learning once they’ve achieved a certain level of expertise. They stay up-to-date with new training techniques and continuously seek ways to improve. Whether through coaching clinics, watching videos, reading books, or diving into subjects like sports psychology or nutrition, great coaches are always looking for ways to expand their knowledge. They’re lifelong learners who strive to be visionary and forward-thinking, ensuring that their athletes are always one step ahead.
  3. Shares the Knowledge, Educates Others
    It’s one thing to have knowledge; it’s another to be able to share it effectively. A coach must be willing to teach and help others grow, not only within the sport but also in life. The best coaches make sure athletes understand the “why” behind what they do. That’s where real growth happens. They encourage athletes to try new things, explore different ideas, and share insights with others to improve performance.
  4. Highly Energized and a Motivator
    Motivation is at the heart of good coaching. The most successful coaches know how to ignite a fire in their athletes, making them believe in their potential and pushing them to excel. A motivated athlete is a powerful athlete, and a coach’s enthusiasm plays a major role in that. Whether it’s keeping practice fresh, fun, and challenging or focusing on performance goals rather than just outcomes, a good coach knows how to energize their team and get them to push through.
  5. Knows the Athlete, Values and Respects That Relationship
    Great coaches understand their athletes on a personal level, respecting individual differences. Whether it’s the way they communicate or how they motivate, knowing what works for each athlete is vital to building a solid relationship. They adapt their coaching style to suit the needs of each person, acknowledging their strengths and weaknesses. This relationship is built on respect, and it’s the key to successful coaching, especially when managing a diverse team.
  6. Effective Communicator and Teacher
    A coach who communicates clearly and effectively gains respect from their athletes. Setting clear goals, giving direct feedback, and reinforcing key messages is essential. Coaches should ensure that the language they use is simple and easily understood, making it easy for athletes to stay focused and engaged. Communication isn’t just about giving instructions—it’s about setting the tone for success.
  7. Good Listener
    A good coach isn’t just talking all the time—they’re listening. Great coaches actively seek out feedback from their athletes, creating an open dialogue where athletes feel comfortable sharing their thoughts. Listening to player input is essential for modifying training plans and improving team dynamics. When athletes feel heard, they are more likely to trust and respect their coach.
  8. Disciplined, Strong in Character, and Integrity
    Trust is the foundation of any successful coach-athlete relationship. Coaches must set clear standards and stick to them, creating an environment of discipline and integrity. They model the behavior they expect from their athletes, holding themselves to the same high standards. When rules are violated, discipline should follow, but it must be fair and consistent. A coach with integrity ensures that both their personal values and the athlete’s growth remain at the forefront.
  9. Leads by Example with High Attitude Towards Hard Work
    A good coach shows up every day with a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. They’re not just telling their athletes what to do—they’re showing them. A coach who expects respect, hard work, and positivity must first demonstrate these qualities themselves. Leadership isn’t just about direction; it’s about setting the standard.
  10. Displays Commitment and Passion for the Sport
    The best coaches are in it for the love of the sport. Their commitment goes beyond the game—it’s about constantly thinking of how to improve their athletes and themselves. Coaching is a 24/7 job, and top coaches live and breathe it. They stay committed to their athletes’ best interests and ensure that when the pressure is at its greatest, they’re there to guide them to perform at their peak.

Internet Resources on Being a Good Sports Coach

According to Harrison et al. (2022), a great head coach must have the right knowledge and credentials, ensuring experience and proper certifications. Strong communication skills are essential—they must be accessible, responsive, and clear when interacting with athletes. A good coach also needs people skills to connect with and motivate their athletes. They should be goal-focused, setting clear objectives and creating structured plans. Providing quality feedbackis crucial to help athletes improve. Honesty is key, as is understanding the athlete’s training-life balance to maintain well-being. Motivation is another must, instilling confidence and pushing athletes to succeed. Coaches must be perceptive, identifying strengths and customizing programs. Lastly, being likable helps foster strong personal and professional connections, which boosts team dynamics.

First Step Sports (2022) highlights seven essential traits for a good coach. They must be confident communicators, offering clear instructions and feedback while adapting to each athlete’s needs. Organization is key, staying on top of schedules, equipment, and training techniques. A coach must also be dependable and disciplined, setting an example and maintaining a structured, motivating environment. Importantly, growth over winning matters—they focus on learning from failures, teaching teamwork, and fostering sportsmanship. A good coach is constructively positive, celebrating progress and setting future goals. Their attitude should inspire, acting as a role model for the behavior they want to see. Lastly, they share knowledge beyond the sport, showing how sports link to broader life and academic lessons.

Goldsmith (2024) outlines ten key habits of highly effective coaches. They must provide challenging training that exceeds competition standards, preparing athletes for high-pressure situations. A great coach is committed to lifelong learning, constantly staying ahead of the curve. They accelerate their learning, striving to outpace the competition’s knowledge. Creativity is also vital, developing unique and innovative training programs. Even in team sports, a coach must focus on individual development, ensuring every athlete reaches their full potential.

Dean Smith and Michael Jordan
One of the coaching greats Dean Smith with his former player and the GOAT Michael Jordan. | Photo by: BOB DONNAN / USA TODAY

Coaches should also ensure athletes out-prepare their competition in all areas of life. Adaptability is crucial, as they adjust training plans to meet the needs of each athlete. Effective coaches focus on performance practice over repetition and take an integrated, multi-disciplinary approach to talent development. Lastly, great coaches are strong leaders, willing to take risks and challenge the status quo for success (Goldsmith, 2024).

Thompson (2024) identifies ten key traits of effective coaches and leaders, which, while not sport-specific, apply perfectly to coaching. These traits include a spirit of generosity, where coaches dedicate their time and energy to help others grow. They should have the ability to see the best in others, focusing on positive qualities even when they’re not obvious. Great coaches also maintain a healthy self-esteem, developing themselves without relying on their athletes for validation.

Emotional maturity is essential—they should be self-aware and capable of deep connections with others. A coach’s interpersonal courage allows them to confront challenges and seek truth. Coaches also need compassion, empathizing with athletes’ struggles and remaining lifelong learners in pursuit of growth. They combine resilience and flexibility, bending when necessary to handle setbacks. Effective coaches foster a non-judgmental environment, silencing judgmental thoughts, and maintain a perpetual optimistic bias, believing in improvement and the future potential of their athletes (Thompson, 2024).

Scholar Articles on Leadership Traits

In this last part of source analysis, we’ll dive into the scholarly work that examines leadership traits. I believe that being a good sports coach is inseparable from being a great leader, so understanding these leadership traits is key to grasping what it takes to excel as a coach.

Kirkpatrick and Locke (1991) highlight essential traits and actions that make an effective leader, which translate seamlessly into coaching. A good leader must be able to create and communicate a vision, setting a clear, realistic, and attractive future for the team. This vision isn’t enough on its own—the leader must then implement it by structuring the team for effective communication, selecting and training individuals with the right traits, and motivating others to work toward the vision through authority, role modeling, and specific goals.

Great leaders also excel at managing information, gathering feedback, and ensuring everyone understands the team’s direction. They know how to build a team, fostering collaboration among members to achieve shared goals, while encouraging change and innovation to adapt to new challenges. The key personal traits for leaders include drive, a desire to leadself-confidencehonesty and integritycognitive ability, and knowledge of the business—traits that help gain trust, make effective decisions, and guide others to success (Kirkpatrick and Locke, 1991).

Zaccaro et al. (2004) dive deep into Leader Traits and Attributes, showing how these traits are crucial for a leader’s effectiveness, emergence, and progress. They break down several key traits that fit into broad categories. First up, cognitive capacities—things like general intelligence and creative thinking—are essential for leaders to assess situations and come up with innovative solutions. Then, personality traits like extroversion, conscientiousness, emotional stability, openness, and agreeableness help leaders connect with others and maintain a positive, balanced approach in any interaction.

Zaccaro et al. (2004) believes that, leaders also need strong motives and needs, like a desire for power, achievement, and a strong drive to lead, which fuel their ambition and persistence. Social capacities, including self-monitoringsocial intelligence, and emotional intelligence, are vital for understanding social dynamics and building solid relationships. Problem-solving skills—like problem construction, solution generation, and metacognition—are necessary for tackling challenges with insight and flexibility. Lastly, tacit knowledge, or the practical know-how gained from experience, allows leaders to apply their skills effectively in real-world situations. When combined, these traits enable leaders to inspire others, lead effectively, and navigate even the most complex environments.

Alsarrani et al. (2021) dig into the link between leadership style, behavior, and traits, uncovering some powerful insights into how they all interact. According to the study, leadership traits are the inherent qualities of a leader, encompassing everything from physical to emotional, social, and intellectual characteristics. Traits like effective communicationmotivationself-confidenceambition, and high energy are crucial—they lay the groundwork for how a leader approaches their role and impacts others (Bolden et al., 2003; Freedman, 2016).

On the flip side, leadership behavior focuses more on what leaders do—actions and activities that are learned and developed over time. Whether it’s transformationaltransactional, or democratic, these behaviors aren’t natural but are cultivated patterns that leaders use to steer their teams toward success (Freedman, 2016; Horner, 1997). Finally, leadership style ties both traits and behaviors together. It’s a mix of an individual’s personality-driven traits and the behaviors they’ve adopted, shaping how they guide and motivate their team (Kendra, 2018; Zaccaro et al., 2018). The study wraps up by saying that these three elements—traitsbehavior, and style—are all linked, with leadership traits forming the foundation for how a leader behaves and ultimately leads.

Day and Zaccaro (2014) dive into leadership categorization theory, exploring how leadership traits shape how leaders are perceived and how they emerge. Traits like being dedicatedgoal-orientedinformedcharismatic, and decisive are seen as the typical leadership qualities that quickly mark someone as a leader in the eyes of followers. These traits act as cognitive shortcuts, helping followers make quick judgments about who fits the leadership role, with the degree to which someone aligns with these traits influencing how they’re viewed as a leader.

What’s interesting here is that leaders don’t need to fully embody all these traits—just a few of these key qualities can be enough to earn the title. This reinforces the idea that leadership traits aren’t just personality metrics but also labels that followers use to understand social dynamics and leadership influence. Ultimately, this shows how traits play a massive role in leadership perception, guiding how followers categorize and react to potential leaders in different situations (Day and Zaccaro, 2014).

Additional Trait of a Good Coach: Fan-Engaging Coach

This one hits close to home for me, and it’s all thanks to Šarūnas Jasikevičius, the former head coach of my home-town Kaunas team Žalgiris.

First off, let’s make it clear—he was an absolute legend, not just for Žalgiris but for the Lithuanian national team as well. His playing style was unique, a combination of improvisation and brilliance that showcased his incredible basketball IQ. And let’s not forget his intense, hard-headed personality that commanded respect from every opponent.

As a point guard, he played with and for some of the best minds in European basketball: Obradovič, Diamantidis, Rick Carlisle, and Anthony Parker, just to name a few. The guy was surrounded by greatness, and when he transitioned to coaching, he effortlessly translated that on-court knowledge to the sidelines. And he didn’t just bring his expertise—he brought his charisma, leadership traits and if anything, he cranked it up to the max when he became the coach.

When Jasikevičius took over Žalgiris, it was like a spark went off. Not only did the team start winning, but every press conference was a spectacle. He educated, shared his knowledge, and motivated the fans, encouraging them to be more supportive and involved. He didn’t just coach a team; with his leadership he launched Žalgiris and the entire national media into a golden era that we’re still feeling the effects of today.

good sports coach
Šarūnas Jasikevičius tearing up after leading Žalgiris to Euroleague’s first Final Four after almost two decades.

But it wasn’t just his wins or his words that drew people in—it was his passion. His “I give a f*ck” attitude, his emotional tears of joy when advancing to the Euroleague Final Four, all resonated with fans because we saw someone who truly cared about the club, just as much as we did.

In a time when Lithuania was struggling in national basketball, Žalgiris’ improbable run to the Euroleague’s Final Four—as underdogs, no less—was a light in the dark. Finishing third among Europe’s best wasn’t just a victory for the team; it was a victory for the whole nation. Jasikevičius is proof of how one coach can impact not only a team but an entire sport’s ecosystem.

It’s not just Jasikevičius—the same can be said for other good sports coaches who grab the media’s attention and connect with the public. Coaches who are interesting, charismatic, and media-savvy elevate the value of the whole organization.

So here’s a personal addition to my list of traits for a good sports coach: if a coach can engage both fans and the media, it’s a game-changer for the club, bringing added value to the entire organization.

Interview with Stefan Hendriks

Another thing that I’ve done for this research is sit and talk with a coach that takes a different road towards his dream, and goes through education way. You can find our full interview here, but in this segment I’m gonna summarize the part about what it makes to become a good sports coach.

From Stefan Hendriks’ experience, several key traits stand out as crucial for a good sports coach. People skills are at the top of the list. Hendriks emphasizes how important it is to listen, understand players’ motivations, and ensure everyone is on the same page. He says, “#1 (most important trait) for sure is people skills, listening, talking, making sure everyone is on the same page, tactics and techniques only matter after that.” Trust is the foundation for any successful coaching relationship, and Hendriks highlights that “Trust is earned though, never given. We have a saying that trust comes by foot, step by step, but can go fast like on a horse, at full speed.”

Another crucial trait is adaptability. A good sport coach must be able to adjust his approach based on new insights, player needs, and changing team dynamics. Hendriks puts it plainly: “The day you stop learning is the day you lose whatever your advantage is.” This highlights the importance of being flexible and open to change in coaching.

Hendriks also stresses the importance of a growth mindset for a good sports coach, saying, “It’s very commonly seen that the most experienced coaches and players never stop learning, have a growth mindset.” This shows that the best coaches are always looking to improve, no matter how experienced they are.

Communication is key, and Hendriks explains that tactics and techniques don’t matter if players don’t understand the reason behind their actions: “If you have the perfect plan but no contact to their why, it’s impossible to get good results.” Good communication is not just about giving instructions, it’s about making sure every player understands why they are doing what they’re doing, which helps them trust and buy into the process.

Lastly, self-awareness is vital. Hendriks reflects on his own coaching journey, saying, “Key is to identify… what you are good at, what you lack.” Recognizing one’s strengths and weaknesses helps a coach grow and improve, and it’s essential for fostering trust with players.

So, the most important traits for a good sports coach, according to Hendriks, are: people skillsadaptabilitygrowth mindsetcommunication, and self-awareness. These traits help build trust, foster growth, and create an environment where both the coach and players can thrive.

Final List of Traits of a Good Sports Coach

After digging deep into a mix of scholarly articles, personal experience, consulting with sports coach and scholar Stefan Hendriks, and real-world examples from the world of basketball and beyond, I’ve narrowed down the seven essential traits of a great sports coach. These are the 7 traits that help coaches build winning teams, inspire athletes, and leave a lasting impact on the sport’s ecosystem. Let’s break it down.

TraitDescription
CharismaThe ability to inspire and engage not only players but also fans and the media. A charismatic coach drives a team’s success by bringing the entire ecosystem together.
Experience as a LeaderA coach must have strong leadership skills, the ability to set a clear vision, and guide the team through challenges with authority and consistency. Leadership experience helps navigate tough situations and maintain focus. This also comes from being a leader as a player, or from being in a winning culture.
CompetenceTechnical knowledge and confidence in one’s abilities are the foundation of a coach’s success. Athletes trust and follow coaches who know the game inside and out.
RelatednessBuilding personal, meaningful relationships with athletes is essential for maintaining a positive environment and motivating players to give their best. A coach who understands their athletes’ needs creates a strong team dynamic.
AdaptabilityA great coach adjusts their approach to meet the evolving needs of the team. Flexibility allows coaches to adapt to different players, new tactics, and ever-changing competition.
Motivation & DriveA coach must inspire their athletes to reach their full potential, push past limits, and stay committed to their improvement. Motivation is key to creating a culture of high performance.
Leading by ExampleActions speak louder than words. A coach must model the behavior they want from their athletes, creating an atmosphere of respect, discipline, and hard work.

Why These Traits Were Picked

These seven traits were chosen based on years of research, personal observations, and key examples from the world of basketball. Coaches like Phil Jackson, Gregg Popovich, Mike Krzyzewski, and Zeljko Obradović showcase how these traits come together to form successful leadership that transcends the court.

1. Charisma

Charisma is essential because it’s the trait that separates the good sports coaches from the unforgettable ones. Phil Jackson, with his Zen-like calm and spiritual approach, created a powerful culture in Chicago and Los Angeles that wasn’t just about basketball—it was about building unity and trust among his players. The same goes for Gregg Popovich, whose sharp wit, humor, and forthrightness make him a revered figure both on and off the court. A coach with charisma doesn’t just command respect—they draw everyone into their vision and inspire passion in athletes and fans alike. As McLean and Mallett (2011) state, a coach’s ability to inspire and lead with charisma is foundational to team success.

2. Experience as a Leader

Leadership is more than just giving orders; it’s about setting a clear vision and guiding the team through adversity. Coaches like Mike Krzyzewski and Dean Smith exemplify leadership that extends beyond strategy. Krzyzewski, with his decades of leadership at Duke, shaped not just great basketball players but future leaders by instilling a sense of responsibility, work ethic, and respect.

Similarly, Dean Smith transformed UNC into a powerhouse not just with his coaching acumen, but with his leadership ability to develop character in his players. As Kirkpatrick and Locke (1991) emphasize, a leader must have the ability to guide others towards success with both wisdom and integrity.

I gotta mention, experience as a leader also ties into having been in a leading environment or part of a winning culture. The more you’ve been through it—whether on the court or in any leadership role—the better you understand what it takes to push your environment to reach that level. It’s all about knowing the grind, the mentality, and what it takes to create that winning standard.

3. Competence

Competence is at the core of why athletes trust their coaches. A coach must know the game inside out—strategically and tactically—and they must instill this confidence in their athletes. Zeljko Obradović, one of the most successful coaches in European basketball, has always been admired for his exceptional tactical understanding of the game and ability to get the most out of his players. His deep knowledge of basketball allows him to develop strong, successful teams that consistently perform at the highest level. McLean and Mallett (2011) highlight that a competent coach not only needs to have technical expertise, but also the ability to instill that knowledge into their players to boost overall team performance.

4. Relatedness

A coach’s ability to build relationships with players is crucial to motivating them and creating a positive team environment. A perfect example is Gregg Popovich, who is known for his personal relationships with his players, from Tim Duncan to Tony Parker. His deep understanding of his athletes, both on and off the court, allowed him to adapt his coaching style and build a culture of mutual respect. As McLean and Mallett (2011) point out, the best coaches are those who build strong, supportive relationships, fostering an environment where athletes feel both challenged and cared for.

5. Adaptability

Adaptability is critical because no season or team is ever the same. A coach must evolve with the team’s needs and adjust to new challenges. For instance, Ergin Ataman, known for his success with Anadolu Efes, thrives when given players who fit his system. But when the team underperforms, he’s willing to adapt and adjust his approach. This adaptability is also key for coaches like Popovich and Jackson, who have proven they can adjust their strategies to fit different players and dynamics. Zaccaro et al. (2004) argue that the best leaders, including coaches, know how to adapt to change and use flexibility as a tool to maximize their team’s potential.

6. Motivation & Drive

A coach’s ability to motivate can make or break a team. A motivated player will always outwork an unmotivated one, and that’s where the coach comes in. Phil Jackson and Mike Krzyzewski have long been known for their ability to inspire and drive their teams, motivating their athletes to overcome obstacles, no matter the circumstance. Whether it’s inspiring Kobe Bryant to reach new heights or pushing his players to embrace the pressure of big moments, Krzyzewski shows that motivation is about more than just winning—it’s about constant growth and striving for excellence. As Goldsmith (2024) mentions, a motivated coach can fuel an athlete’s drive to excel, creating a winning mentality in the locker room.

7. Leading by Example

Leading by example is perhaps the most powerful trait a coach can have. Popovich’s calm demeanor, Jackson’s spiritual leadership, and Krzyzewski’s emphasis on respect all demonstrate that coaches must walk the walk, not just talk the talk. Coaches like these understand that their actions, discipline, and work ethic set the tone for the entire team. As McLean and Mallett (2011) point out, leading by example fosters an environment of respect and trust—key elements for a successful coaching career.

Conclusion

These seven traits—charismaexperience as a leadercompetencerelatednessadaptabilitymotivation & drive, and leading by example—represent the pillars of effective coaching. They have been selected based on insights from scholars, personal experience, and the real-world examples.

Coaches like Popovich, Krzyzewski, Jackson, and Obradović showcase these qualities time and time again, proving that great leadership is as important and sometimes goes beyond tactics and game plans. Strategy is as important as creating an environment where athletes feel valued, motivated, and ready to perform at their best. These traits, when combined, form the backbone of any successful coaching philosophy, driving teams to exceed expectations and achieve greatness both on and off the court.

good sports coach

CITATION
Bakanauskas, P. (2025, January 27). What Makes a Good Sports Coach? 7 Powerful Traits Unveiled. Play of Values. https://playofvalues.com/what-makes-a-good-sports-coach/

IN-TEXT CITATION: (Bakanauskas, 2025)


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[…] preparing for my article on what makes a good sports coach, I realized that having someone with both academic and practical experience would bring a unique […]

[…] in‌ exploring this topic further, Bakanauskas’s ‍detailed analysis can be found on the Play of Values ‌blog. ⁢Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or sports enthusiast, this study​ sheds light on the […]

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