The qualities of a good coach

To determine the qualities of a good coach, all you have to do is reflect back on all of the coaches you have had over the years, and think about what it was that made them a good coach.  I have been involved in alpine ski racing for about 10 years, and in that time I have probably had about 40 coaches.  Some of them I have only had as a coach for as little as half a day.  And some of them I have had for years.  Here is my inventory about their qualities or coaching that has made them memorable and in some way has helped contribute to my success:

Coaching techniques:

• fostered the "self coaching" method.
• explain things in detail.
• described what it should feel like.
• gave one specific piece of feedback with a simple correction
• gave feedback once in awhile
• set courses that matched racing conditions
• explained how to modify line to match course set.
• explained how they themselves ski faster, not just quoted the lastest ski terminology.
• connected exercises with correct skiing technique.
• had an open approach and was willing to work with their athletes to strengthen their understanding.
• had a flexible agenda
• had a plan and provided a summary of their session with homework.
• worked well as a team with other coaches.
• upgrades their technical knowledge
• appreciates the technical as well as the tactical elements of racing.
• has a racing background and draws upon that background to explain things to athletes.
• trys to find success for all their athletes, using a realistic approach to improvement.
• pushes athletes out of their comfort zone.
• helps athletes to make their own connections.
• encourages active learning, but can also manage passive learning as well.

Personality traits:

• really cares about their students and their success
• had a sense of humour.
• could accept feedback "negative or positive"
• takes things in stride
• enjoys coaching
• works hard
• is punctual and dedicated
• answers questions to the best of their ability
• tells it like it is without being too negative.
• is organized
• social and works well with other people.
• is aware and is sensitive to athlete's emotional and intellectual needs.

It is true that coaches can't always be perfect, but the more good qualities a coach has, the higher the chance that their athletes will find their own personal success.  Hopefully there are other points I have missed that can also be added to the list.