QUALITY COACHING TRAITS: WHAT ARE COACHES CONCERNS? We asked coaches to `rank` the traits or characteristics that successful coaches embrace. The percentage of coaches who said these were 'needed' or 'especially needed.' Categories 1 Communicating Team/Player Expectations 2 Creating a Positive Environment 3 Instilling Values/Virtues 4 Improving Weakness/Polishing Strengths 5 Building Trust 6 Hiring Quality Assistants 7 Having Fun 8 Creating Commitment 9 Winning % 92 91 89 88 88 85 80 79 59 10 Club/Travel Team Issues 11 Fundraising 12 Pressure to Win 13 Opponents Cheating 14 Job Security 15 Rule Changes 16 Administration Pressure 3 UP, 3 DOWN 1. Finding Quality Assistants +9 2. Increased Workload/Expectations +3 3. Team Funding +1 1. Club/Travel Team Issues -5 2. Sport Specialization -3 3. Participation -3 28 COACH & A.D. | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025 80 76 66 62 58 56 53 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Coach & Athletic Director asked coaches to tell us what issues weigh on their minds. Here's what concerned them the most, ranked by the percentage of coaches who said they were at least moderately concerned by the subject. Categories Finding Quality Assistants Player Health & Safety Increased Workload/Expectations Sport Specialization Staff Health & Safety Combative/Abusive Parentsv Participation Team Funding Social Media Issues % 93 92 90 89 88 87 85 81 81