The following is the process of how I am developing my coaching philosophy, program and system. I believe that to become a good coach you must establish and maintain all three vital components. This process is forever changing, through knowledge and evaluation.

Definition
Philosophy: guiding or underlying principles: a set of basic principles or concepts underlying a particular sphere of knowledge. system of thought: a particular system of thought or doctrine.

Program: plan of action: a plan of action for achieving something.

System: complex body: a combination of related elements organized into a complex whole, set of principles: a scheme of ideas or principles, way of proceeding: a method or set of procedures for achieving something, orderliness: the use or result of careful planning and organization of elements.

   To develop a good system a coach must be aware that he/she must continually adapt and grow in knowledge. The best source is other coaches and their programs. Whether you agree or disagree with other coaches ideas and teaching philosophies it is imperative that you keep an open mind and learn from their successes or mistakes. This idea has helped me over the years to develop my ever changing, growing system.

   Coach John Wooden has had one of the most successful systems known today. Below are a few tips that comprise the formula that Wooden used to take the UCLA Bruins to an extraordinary run of ten national championships in twelve years. I also refer to his pyramid of success for guidance to my system.

"BE QUICK, BUT DON'T HURRY" - By Andrew Hill with John Wooden
  • The team that makes the most mistakes wins!
  • Adjust to your players, don't expect them all to adjust to you.
  • Great leaders give credit to others, but accept the blame themselves.
  • Surround yourself with strong opinionated people.
  • Teamwork is not a preference, it's a necessity.
  • Concentrate on your team, not the opposition.
  • A good leader is first, and foremost, a teacher.
More information on "BE QUICK, BUT DON'T HURRY"

John Wooden 1972
"It isn’t what you do, but how you do it. No system is any good if the players are not well grounded in fundamentals. Team play comes from integrating individuals who have mastered the fundamentals into a smooth working unit. Confidence comes from being prepared."