Mom Basketball Coach, What?!
This past fall, I received a phone call about a shortage of volunteers for coaching basketball from the owner of the Jr. NBA for the Clarkston area.
Although I had offered to be an assistant coach, they needed me to be the HEAD coach. That's all I've ever been over the past two decades. This challenge made my heart race, mentally panic, and run through the "what if" scenarios.
Kids are my gig, and mentoring them to be better humans is a favorite past-time.
Taking time to analyze the data and my fears, it became apparent I was more excited than afraid.
What were my fears?
Does Maggie want me to coach her? – She said yes.
Overcoming Thought: If this doesn't go well, it's a learning lesson for us.
Failure - Letting the kids down, including Maggie.
Overcoming thought: It's not about winning/losing. It's about cultivating a supportive team.
Being under a microscope - Parents have ideals and desires for their kids regarding sports. Can I provide what they desire?
Overcoming thought: I am a parent and have desires. Communicate that to the parents and ask them what they expect to avoid disappointment.
Do I know enough? - Man, it's been a LONG time since I played. So, what does it take to coach Kindergarten to 2nd graders?
Overcoming thought: Thankful for the internet. I refreshed and reminded myself what was truly needed.
Shoot. Will I look like 'that gym teacher"? - Vain but an honest thought.
Overcoming thought: No. You're young, energetic, and positive. It's a t-shirt, tennis shoe gig. Just leave the moles, bad hair, and 1980's polyester at home.
What will it take to do this as head coach without an assistant? - That kept me up at night.
Overcoming Thought: Create a plan. What's the main goal at age 5, 6, 7, and potentially 8 years old? Basics, Drills, Teamwork, and Sportsmanship.
The kids' energy was high for an early Saturday morning 8 weeks in a row. But man, it felt good to hear the sound of basketballs and squeaking tennis shoes on a court.
There were challenges once knee-deep in the mix. However, I kept the kids' spirits up, teaching them all at once x6 kiddos during drills without assistance. Communicate the details to all regarding each week's adventures/games/updates/etc.
It was worth seeing each kid come into their own as they found their "spot" on the court and the team. A light comes on and glows brightly for all to see when this happens. It's in those moments that make overcoming the fear worth it.
At the end of these beautiful 8 weeks, it was my honor to coach a lovely group of energetic, mindful, helpful, dedicated, and guidance-seeking students. Honestly, I can't wait to hear how they grow and utilize their talents discovered within these few weeks. What a blessing.
Today, I challenge you to go out there and list your fears and note your overcoming thoughts. It's a beneficial way to get out of your head and sincerely hear your heart. It's worth it.
Stats:
Maggie was 1 of 4 girls. Total players: 36
I was 1 of 2 female coaches. Total coaches: 6
Season Record: 3/4 (Go, team!)
That's our tough cookie getting at it and being the only girl out there. Boom.
