By observing and imitating adults, the youth learn how to socially interact with others and this defines behaviours that are acceptable to them. The actions displayed by adults are important as it shapes the youth behaviour and personality of the youth around them. Based on what the youth observe, they will then learn and copy the behaviours displayed by the adults.

In a sporting context, it is therefore important for youth coaches to strive to be role models for their youth athletes. Given their of exposure to youth in a learning environment, they ought to see themselves as educators and set positive examples because their actions can greatly influence the youth athletes. The importance of being a role model is further highlighted as 1 of 3 principles in the National Standards for Youth Sports (NSYS) of SportSG. Unfortunately, coaches are not immune to poor behaviour. Behaviours such as arguing with the referee, discouraging fairplay and lack in punctuality are some common poor behaviours we see amongst coaches. Consequently, this kind of poor behaviour are passed on to the youth athletes because when they see their own coach doing it, they deem it as acceptable.

In conclusion, the role of a coach is to not only impart sport specific skills. They are also educators who are capable and responsible for shaping positive and good behaviours in youth athletes. By educating the youth through their actions, they will develop athletes with not only good skills but a good attitude as well.

Implications

• Poor attitude by youth athlete in the long run. It includes lack of sportsmanship, punctuality, etc.

• Mimicking whatever poor behaviour and attitude displayed by youth coach

Tips on being a good role model (Mac, 2013)

• Focus on the fact that “you teach by your actions”

• showing respect to your athlete and the umpire

• being punctual

• calling for fouls against you

• Never compromise on poor behaviour just because of the player’s importance

• Avoid being over-competitive and having to “win at all cost” mentality

• Support, motivate, encourage and inspire your athletes

References

Child Development and Early Learning. (n.d.). Retrieved October 2, 2017, from http://www.factsforlifeglobal.org/03/4.html

Mac. (2013, January 20). How to be a Good Role Model for Your Players. Retrieved October 01, 2017, from http://www.basketballforcoaches.com/being-a-role-model/

Further Readings The Most Important Aspect of Coaching & Leadership - Being a Good Role Model How to be a Good Role Model for Your Players North Carolina's Roy Williams on impacting young lives National Standards for Youth Sports 4 Steps to becoming a role model coach