Coaching is about far more than wins and losses—it’s about shaping lives. Years from now, our athletes won’t remember the exact words we said, but they will remember who we were. The most important thing we can do as coaches is to walk out our faith daily, knowing that our actions speak louder than our words.

A Legacy Beyond Trophies:

At memorial services for coaches, former players rarely talk about championships or awards. Instead, they remember the life lessons, the encouragement, and the character of their coach. Our true legacy isn’t measured in victories but in the way we love, lead, and serve those entrusted to us.

Love is the Foundation:

“We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

Love should be the foundation of everything we do. It’s expressed in different ways—sometimes in quiet encouragement, other times in firm but fair discipline. Love isn’t just about making athletes feel good; it’s about helping them grow into their full potential, even when it requires tough conversations.

Meeting Athletes Where They Are:

Each athlete comes from a unique background, bringing different experiences, struggles, and levels of faith. Our job as coaches is to meet them where they are, guiding them with patience and understanding. True mentorship happens when we see the individual beyond the uniform and invest in their personal and spiritual growth.

The Power of Communication:

Effective coaching requires open and honest communication. Sharing our testimony can inspire athletes, but being a good listener is just as vital. Sometimes, they don’t need advice—they just need someone who will genuinely hear them. Building trust through communication creates an environment where athletes feel valued and understood.

Judge Little, Teach More:

Athletes learn more from our actions than our words. How we handle victory and defeat, how we treat opponents and officials, and how we respond under pressure all model Christ-like behavior. When we lead with integrity and humility, we teach invaluable lessons that extend far beyond the game.

Coaching is About Planting Seeds:

We may not see the immediate results of our influence, but coaching is about planting seeds of faith, character, and perseverance. One coach, when asked how his season went, wisely responded, “I’ll let you know in 20 years.” The impact of our coaching isn’t measured in a season but in the lives we help shape for years to come.

The True Goal of Coaching:

Winning games is great, but winning hearts for Christ is the real victory. When we prioritize faith, love, and character, we leave a lasting legacy that outlives the final score. As coaches, our calling is to lead by example, knowing that more is caught than taught.

How will your athletes remember you?