Coaches

Highlanders Athletics provides a framework for coaching roles.

*Coaches may choose to share or distribute responsibilities listed below depending on the unique needs and strengths of their coaching staff and team. It is imperative that all coaching staff have a voice and involvement in team preparation and competition that aligns with the coaches individual strengths to bring to the program.

Establishing clear roles for the head coach, assistant coach and support coaches (co-coaches if required) in the Highlanders Athletics Program is essential for effective team management. It's crucial for the head coach and assistant coach(es) to maintain open and effective communication, collaborate closely, and respect each other's roles. The success of the coaching staff and the team as a whole depends on their ability to work together harmoniously and share a common goal.

NOTE: *Team managers are not considered coaching staff (but coaches may choose to take on the role of Team Manager in addition to their coaching responsibilities).

*All coaches may have different, unique skills and strengths that they bring to a coaching staff to help the team. Coaches skills and strengths must be identified to best contribute to the teams success and development. Coaches also have areas that need improvement - coaches are encouraged to share with fellow coaches as coaching staff can help to build each other up to improve coaching as a whole. 

*Head coaches are responsible for leading, effectively communicating and including the assistant and support coaches in all items below to maintain unity in coaching and team vision and goals. Team coaching roles are listed below under suggested roles - but may be assigned as coaching staff see fit.

*All items below must follow Highlanders Athletics Vision, Culture, and Goals while following NLESD Policies.

HEAD COACH:

1. Overall Team Vision:

   • The head coach is responsible for setting the team's overall vision, goals, and strategies in consultation with coaching staff.

   • They determine the team's playing style and approach to the sport. 

2. Leadership: 

   • The head coach serves as the primary leader and decision-maker for the team. They have the final say in game strategies, starting lineups, and major decisions. 

3. Game Management: 

   • During games, the head coach is in charge of in-game decisions, including play-calling, substitutions, and overall game management. 

4. Practice Planning:

   • The head coach designs practice sessions, focusing on skill development, team tactics, and physical conditioning. They set the agenda for each practice. 

5. Motivation and Discipline:

   • It's the head coach's role to motivate players and instill discipline. They set the tone for the team's work ethic and attitude. Athletes must be held accountable to athletic contract and athlete expectations.

6. Player Development:

   • While all coaches work on player development, the head coach generally has the final say on player positions and playing time. 

7. Scouting and Game Preparation: 

   • The head coach takes the lead in scouting opponents, developing game plans, and strategic decisions. 

8. Final Say:

   • The head coach has the ultimate authority in cases of disputes or conflicting ideas within the coaching staff - in consultation with Athletics Director and in conjunction with Vikings Athletics Policies and Procedures.
     
     

ASSISTANT COACHES:

• Supporting the team vision and decisions:

  • The assistant coach's primary role is to support the teams vision and decisions. They implement the previously decided upon strategies and contribute to achieving team goals. 

• Player Development:

  • Assistants are responsible for helping players develop their skills. They may lead specific aspects of training, such as position-specific drills. 

• Team Unity:

  • Promote a positive team atmosphere, teamwork, and sportsmanship among players. Assistants often build strong relationships with players. 

• Game Preparation:

  • Assist in preparing the team for games, including scouting opponents, developing drills, and practicing strategies. They may take the lead in certain practice sessions. 

• Mentorship:

  • Assistant coaches often serve as mentors to players, teaching life skills, and providing individual guidance. 

• In-Game Assistance:

  • Assistants may provide feedback and suggestions during games. They support the head coach in making in-game decisions. 

• Conflict Resolution:

  • Address conflicts or issues within the team in a fair and constructive manner. Assistants often play a role in maintaining team harmony. 

• Professional Development:

  • Continuously seek opportunities for self-improvement and professional development, both for themselves, coaches and the players. 

• Positive Attitude:

  • Maintain a positive and supportive attitude, even in challenging moments. It's crucial for all coaches to maintain open and effective communication, collaborate closely, and respect each other's roles. The success of the coaching staff and the team as a whole depends on their ability to work together harmoniously and share a common goal.

• Coaches must complete applicable forms, and information for coaching eligibility.

• Coaches must stay on top of notifications and information from Athletics Department.

• Coaches must ensure manager duties of team are complete.

• Coaches must be available for tryouts (as a program staff to support selections)

• Coaches are responsible for using teamsnap - and holding athletes accountable to their expectations.

• Coaches are responsible for working together with other program staff to determine strengths and roles to allow for maximum success for our athletes.

• Coaches are responsible for upholding the expectations of Highlanders Athletics Values, Goals, and Vision.