When it comes to sport coaches, people sometimes ascribe the titles “old school” and “new school” when contrasting styles of coaching. When it comes to old and new ways of coaching, there are some rather clear differences when examining philosophies, expectations, and consequences for poor behavior. Neither approach is inherently better—some athletes thrive under the old-school coaching methods, while others respond better to the new-school approach. So what are these differences in coaching styles, and what are the new changes in youth and interscholastic sports?
Examining coaching styles
When we use the terms “old school” and “new school,” we are generally talking about how coaches communicate with kids, and whether they coach from an authoritarian approach (old school), or a more player-centered style (new school). Interestingly, depending on the personality and learning style of a kid, different types of coaches will bring out different psychological features — including focus and motivation. For example, some kids work harder and perform better under the guidance of an old school coach, while other kids respond more favorably to a coach who is less intimidating and more empowering. Below are characteristics of each type of coach:
Old School Coaching
- Tough, authoritarian leadership. Coaches demand respect, often using fear or strict discipline to enforce rules.
- Emphasis on grit and toughness. Players are expected to push through pain and hardship with little room for excuses.
- One-size-fits-all approach. The coach dictates everything, and players are expected to adapt.
- Less focus on psychology. Mental health, emotions, and personal struggles aren’t typically prioritized.
- Fundamentals first approach. Focus is on repetition, drills, and mastering the basics before anything else.
- A “hard work beats talent” mentality. Success is seen as a result of effort and discipline over strategy or innovation.
New School Coaching
- A more player-centered leadership style. Coaches often emphasize communication, trust, and collaboration with their athletes.
- A greater focus on mental health and well being. Coaches recognize the importance of balancing physical and emotional health.
- Science and data-driven training. More focus on analytics, biomechanics, and recovery to maximize performance.
- More adaptable. Adjusting strategies based on players’ strengths and personalizing coaching approaches.
- Encourages freedom and creativity. Letting athletes express themselves and play with instinct rather than strict structure.
- Focused on efficiency. Efficiency in training and using modern recovery methods instead of just grinding through exhaustion.
Final thoughts
We are witnessing a noticeable change in coaching styles these days, with a greater shift toward player empowerment, mental health, and the integration of science and data. Interestingly, while the old school approach focuses less on interpersonal relations and empowering kids, many young athletes still thrive playing for a coach with traditional philosophies and approaches. Ideally, coaches develop their own style of coaching based on sport knowledge, teaching, and supporting kids both on and off the field — and that whether they are old school or new school, kids benefit mentally and physically from the sport experience.
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