I’ve spent 35 years in sport. Most of that as a coach developer — a coach of coaches.

Tens of thousands of hours with coaches who’ve achieved remarkable things: Olympic gold, World Championships, Grand Slams, professional titles at the highest level.

Here’s my gift to you — the top three things I’ve learnt from that living library of coaching genius:

1. Learn something new every day. The best coaches are voracious learners. Open to new ideas. Hungry to improve at the fastest rate possible.

2. Dare to be different. They take their sport in new directions. They don’t care when people think they’re crazy. Leaders lead. Copying kills.

3. Care deeply about your athletes. I’ve spoken with some of the greatest athletes in the world. I can’t tell you how many times they’ve said: “I love the guy — he’s like my dad” or “She just gets me. She really cares about me as a person.” The best coaches care more deeply than you can imagine.

A lifetime of experience in a few words.

What’s your number 1 - your best - coaching tip? Please share it with our Sports Thoughts community.

Wayne Goldsmith

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waynegoldsmith.substack.com/subscribe