Checklist for Coaches

This check-list is about the wider responsibilities of coaches which are not directly related to skills transmission but which are equally important and, if fully adhered to, will help coaches to get the very best out of their own coaching input and thereby make the best possible contribution to the overall club coaching programme.

The most important unit of time spent in the promotion of handball is the period spent with youngsters in the court. Any time given to ensuring that this period is used to best effect is time very well spent.

Be familiar with the Youth Coaching Objectives of the club and be fully committed to working towards their achievement
Be familiar with the GAA Code of Best Practice for Youth Sport
Have full details for all youngsters in the group - name, address, date of birth, parent names, contact numbers and email address. Notify coaching manager of any changes to the group.
Respect coaching times. Always be on time.
Respect coaching sessions - cancel only as a last option. If unable to take a session, make every effort to get a replacement. If the only option is to cancel, ensure that all parents are contacted [Leaving messages with youngsters to give to parents or other youngsters is not best practice and should be avoided.]
Develop good contacts with parents. Know them by name and exchange contact numbers; discuss their child's progress with them whenever the opportunity presents.
Make parents aware that, if their child cannot attend a particular coaching session, they should contact the coach in advance
Keep a record of attendance. If a youngster misses 2 consecutive coaching sessions, or is a frequent non-attender, contact a parent.
If issues of behaviour or discipline arise, discuss firstly with your coaching manager and agree an approach/response
Always be clear and straightforward-but sensitive to circumstance - in communication with youngsters and with parents
Always be prepared to make the extra phone-call.