Condescending coaches irritate me. Let me explain. Years ago I was out for a few adult beverages with a Coach who shall remain nameless and he began complaining about all the “head cases” he had to coach.
He said something to me like, “I’m sure you know what I mean about these prima Donnas.”
My response, was “No, I don’t know what you mean.”
So here is what went through my mind-athletes deserve better than this guy. I truly never hated any athlete-even a few I could easily have hated because of the way they treated me. I always have tried to do my best for every athlete I have worked with. And I never was judgmental with an athlete. To this day I accept the good with the bad and do my best. I guess it is because of my background as a teacher but starting with the premise that there are no good people and bad people, but just different motives, has served me well.
The only problem I have ever had with others is usually because of them, not me. If your coach thinks you are a knucklehead, it is a self-fulfilling prophesy. You will always do something to support that premise. Non-judgmental coaching and teaching will make you a better coach but more importantly, it will help the women and men you work with!