Qualities and Qualification of Coach and Official

UNIT IV

QUALITIES AND QUALIFICATIONS OF COACH AND OFFICIAL

Qualities of a Coach

1. Knows the Sport

To be able to teach effectively the coach must have an in-depth understanding of the sport from the fundamental skills to advanced tactics and strategy. Coaches may have experience playing, but not all former players make good coaches. Coaches must plan for the season, know the progressive nature of training adaptation, know the rules, and provide a simple, structured environment for athletes to succeed.

2. Seeks Out New Information

While a good coach knows a great deal about a sport (s)he must continue to learn and develop new training techniques. Staying up to date of new research, training and rehab information, attending coaching clinics, camps, and seeking out tips from elite coaches and athletes is a sign of a great coach. Watching videos, reading books, studying periodicals can also be helpful.

Attending university classes in sports psychology, nutrition and exercise physiology is a great idea and is readily accessible for any coach who wants to grow and improve.

3. Is a Motivator

The successful coach is a motivator with a positive attitude and enthusiasm for the game and the players. The ability to motivate and inspire is part of the formula for success.

Getting athletes to believe in themselves and achieve come far easier from some coaches than others. The coach who can motivate is able to generate the desire to excel in their athletes. Motivation may mean keeping the practice fun, fresh and challenging. When motivating a player, a good coach stresses trying to reach performance goals, not outcome goals. A coach should make sure that players understand that you can completely control your own effort and training, but can't control what your opponent does or the outcome of every match.

4. Knows The Athlete

Being aware of individual differences in athletes is also an important ingredient in coaching excellence. Yelling, screaming, and other emotional displays may work for some athletes but could have a devastating effect on others. Individualizing communication and motivation to specific players is key to team success. Paying attention to the player's emotions, strengths and weaknesses are the responsibility of a good coach.

5. Is an Effective Communicator

The effective coach is a coach who communicates well and exudes credibility, competence, respect, and authority. A coach should be able to explain ideas clearly. Clear communication means setting defined goals, giving direct feedback and reinforcing the key messages.

Acknowledging success is also essential for good communication.

6. Is a Good Listener

Part of communicating effectively is listening. A coach should be a compassionate ear and should welcome the players' comments, questions, and input. The effective coach will seek out information from the players. Finally, the good coach will be flexible and will use player feedback to modify the training plan if necessary.

7. Is Disciplined

Athletes need to adhere to a reasonable set of rules both on and off the field and if these are ignored the coach is responsible for discipline. The effective coach clearly states a code of conduct up front and adheres to it.

When violations do occur, discipline should follow. Evidence supports that for discipline to effectively change behavior, it must be mild, prompt, and consistent.

8. Leads by Example

The effective coach also leads by example. A good coach adheres to the same rules (s)he expects of the players. A coach who wants respect should also show respect. A coach who expects players to remain positive needs to display a positive attitude. A coach who wants athletes to listen will also listen to the players.

9. Displays Commitment

The best coaches are in the profession because they love it. Besides being strongly committed to the sports and success, the best coaches display a clear commitment to looking out for the best interest of the individual players.

A great coach is not easy to find and requires a unique set of talents and skills. If you are a coach, or if you are looking for one, these qualities may help you identify the strengths and weakness of typical coaching programs. It's unlikely any one person will excel in all areas, but a good coach will have many of these qualities.

Qualifications of a Coach:

Coaches at the college and university level may be required to have a bachelor’s degree, although in some cases coaches may only be required to have coaching certification and experience playing the sport they are coaching. Typically, the preferred qualification is coaching certification combined with a bachelor's degree in physical education, exercise science or Kinesiology.

Each sport has its own coach qualification framework managed by the state and/or national governing body. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have a background in the specific sport and/or have qualifications in a relevant discipline.

Sports are activities, performed individually or by team, that normally involve physical activity and skill. It can be practised for both competition and recreation. Coaching is the training process wherein an individual or “coach” supports another person or a whole team in achieving certain goals.

Sports coaching then is the method of instruction and training of athletes or those who participate in sports by sports coaches. Aside from professional athletes, sports coaching is also carried out within schools and communities, helping a wide range of people develop their performance, skills and physical fitness while at the same time maximizing their potential.

Degree programs in sports coaching often cover topics such as sports science, coaching science, physical education, coaching concepts, physiology, nutrition and psychology. Coursework includes both theory and practical work, and students may be asked to take career placements or internships in their third or final year. Some schools may also require students to submit a dissertation involving research and practical knowledge to complete the degree.

Specializations

Most universities provide specialization options for their students, either through optional electives or as a mandatory part of the degree program. However in the field of sports, specialization is gained through experience in and exposure to different sports.

Accreditation and certification

The accreditation of a degree usually depends on the country where the degree is awarded. In most cases, countries have their own accrediting systems for universities, students and graduates.

Depending on where they want to practice sports coaching, graduates of sports coaching degree programs might be required to obtain licensing or certification to be able to practice as sports coaches or trainers.

Timeframe and Further Studies

A bachelor’s degree in sports coaching can typically take around three years of full-time study. The exact period of time would depend on the university of your choice and the country wherein it is located.

There are also various degrees available for sports coaching graduates at the graduate level. Master’s programs are available for those looking to deepen their knowledge of the field. These programs can also make way for specializations or concentrations. Acceptance into graduate programs normally depends on the applicant’s education (level and grades) and professional experience. Master’s programs usually take one to two years to complete.

Ø  Diploma in Sports coaching and NIS in various game and sports

I. SAI NSNIS, Patiala
II. SAI NSSC, Bangalore
III. SAI NSEC, Kolkata
IV. SAI LNCPE, Thiruvananthapuram

 

Qualities of an Official

Confidence

Competent officials have confidence in themselves and their abilities. This self confidence transcends any particular game or situation. Confident officials remain in control during adversity. That doesn't mean that they experienced no feelings of self doubt, but they don't lose confidence in themselves just because  they made a bad call or experienced other setbacks. Every official has games that he or she would rather forget, but confident officials don't let that undermine their genuine belief that they

are good at what they do.

Consistency

Players and coaches expect officials to be consistent. Their decisions should be the same in identical or similar circumstances, and they should apply the rules equally to both opponents. Inconsistency in officiating is frequently criticized by and/or upsetting to coaches and players. Experience has shown that a lack of consistency creates these and other problems: Players are always guessing what is allowed and what is not. Coaches become frustrated and less trusting of officials competence. Officials try to "even up" calls, thereby punishing a team for previous officiating errors. Players simply don't know what to expect when an official vacillates in decision making. If an official ignores a foul one time but then calls a foul for the same behavior later in the game, athletes and coaches become confused. This uncertainly often results in anxiety, frustration, anger, and eventually some negative physical behavior by those who perceive they are being cheated.

Decisiveness

An official's decisions should occur simultaneously with the action observed, or as soon thereafter as possible. This does not mean that you should make all calls  without hesitation. You might need to take a slight pause to comprehend what you have seen. But too long of a pause gives the athletes and coaches the impression of uncertainly, and they are much more likely to question a delayed call. Judgment calls are not subject to formal protest. Therefore, you can often avoid controversy by making quick and decisive rulings. The closer the decision, the more important decisiveness becomes.

Enjoyment/Motivation

Top officials enjoy their job immensely. This sense of enjoyment and fun is strongly tied to a positive mental attitude and feelings of energy. Good officiating requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and practice. All this leads to a high level of motivation, which is closely tied to enjoyment.

Integrity

Integrity refers to calling a game in an unbiased, honest manner, regardless of the

reactions of players, coaches and spectators; the time remaining; the score; previous

calls; or any other potential sources of influence. The best safeguard for maintaining

your integrity is couched in the adage, "Call 'em as you see 'em." It is extremely important to protect your integrity both on and off the court. Although you probably

are aware of your responsibilities while officiating, you should be equally concerned

about maintaining others respect for your integrity off the court.

Judgement

Good judgment begins with a thorough and complete understanding of the rules and

regulations governing a particular sport. Once established, rule knowledge can serve

as a guide for determining the legality of play. Then, sound judgment gained through

experience will allow you to meet the demands of a variety of officiating situations.

The official who continues to study the rules and applies officiating experiences

toward personal improvement will likely become competent. When officials describe

instances when they exercised good judgment, they invariably find they were:

Totally focused on the game. Unaware of distractions or able toeffectively block them them out. Unconcerned about previous calls and the subsequent reactions from

those involved.

Poise

Sport competition is generally exciting, and the action is often fast paced and rapidly

changing. In addition, because of the importance people in our society place on sports,

it is not unusual for emotions and tensions of players, coaches and spectators to run

high, especially during the initial and later stages of the game. An official must remain

calm and poised, regardless of what is happening. Although you cannot necessarily controlthe emotions of others, you are expected to be in control of your emotions no matter what the circumstances.

Rappport

Rapport is the quality of relating effectively to others. Good rapport with others is desirable in any line of human endeavor and perhaps even moreimportant in officiating.

Officials must try to establish good rapport with both coaches and players. As an official,

you are not trying to win a popularity contest, but you are not trying to make enemies

either. Officials can improve rapport skills by treating players and coaches with courtesy

and respect. You should expect the same treatment in return.

QUALIFICATIONS OF AN OFFICIALS:

Education

Educational requirements vary by state and are sometimes determined by the local sports association. Although some states have no formal education requirements, other states require umpires, referees, and other sports officials to have a high school diploma. Training requirements also vary by state and the level and type of sport. All sports, however, require extensive knowledge of the rules of the game.

Each state and sport association has its own education requirements for umpires, referees, and other sports officials. Some states do not require formal education, while others require sports officials to have a high school diploma.

Umpires, referees, and other sports officials may be required to attend training sessions and seminars before, during, and after the season. These sessions allow officials to learn about rule changes, review and evaluate their own performances, and improve their officiating.

Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials - Certifications and Licenses

To officiate at high school athletic events, umpires, referees, and other officials must typically register with the state or local agency that oversees high school athletics. They also typically need to pass an exam on the rules of the particular game. Some states and associations may require applicants to attend umpiring or refereeing classes before taking the exam or joining an association.

Some local associations may require officials to attend monthly association meetings.

Other associations require officials to attend annual training workshops before renewing their officiating license.

Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials - General Qualifications

Communication skills. Umpires, referees, and other sports officials must have good communication skills because they inform athletes on the rules of the game and settle disputes between competing players. Some sports officials also must communicate violations and infractions to opposing team players, coaches, and spectators.

Decisionmaking skills. Umpires, referees, and other sports officials must observe play, assess various situations, and often make split-second decisions.

Good vision. Umpires, referees, and other sports officials must have good vision to view infractions and determine any violations during play. In some sports, such as diving or gymnastics, sports officials must also be able to clearly observe an athlete's form for imperfections.

Stamina. Many umpires, referees, and other sports officials are required to stand, walk, run, or squat for long periods during games and events.

Teamwork. Because many umpires, referees, and other sports officials work in teams to officiate a game, the ability to cooperate and come to a mutual decision is essential.

Knowledge

• Education and Training
• English Language
• Customer and Personal Service
• Administration and Management
• Psychology

ELIGIBILITY RULES OF INTERCOLLEGIATE AND INTER-UNIVERSITY TOURNAMENTS

A. Eligibility

1. Only a bonafide, full time student, who is enrolled for a courseof the University, which is of a minimum duration of oneacademic year, and whose examination is conducted by theuniversity, shall be eligible to participate in the Inter-Univer-

sity tournaments.

1.1    Students of Open Universities shall be considered to bebonafide students and shall be eligible to participate providedthey fulfil other conditions. However, students enrolled inCorrespondence Course Institutes of Universities, casual students, external students and students pursuing bridge coursesshall not be eligible.

1.2 Ph.D., M. Phil., Compartment, ATKT etc. students will beeligible to participate only if in terms of the concerned university rules they are regarded to be bonafide students and fulfilother conditions laid down in this behalf.

2. All students participating in the LU. Tournaments shall fulfil the following conditions:

(a) Not more than 7 years have. elapsed since a studentpassed the examination qualifying him/her for first ad-mission to a university or college affiliated to a university.

For students getting admission after matriculation orequivalent examination to a university or college affiliated to a university, the period of 7 years will be ex-

tended to8years.

(b) The seven-year period mentioned above shall be distributed as below:

i) not more than 4 years while pursuing graduatestudies. However, in case of universities where students are admitted to the graduate courses afterpassing matriculation or equivalent examination,the period of 4 years shall be extended by one moreyear or not more than 3 years while pursuing postgraduatestudiesirrespective of any other condition~ like change ofclass/ course/faculty, joining lower class from higher,changing academic -to professional courses or vice versa,provided that:students admitted, after passing +2 examination, tograduate courses of more than 3 years duration likeMedical, Engineering, Agriculture, Pharmacy etc.shall be eligible to participate in the Inter.Universitytournaments for the actual length of such graduate

courses.

For the purpose of determining the number of years underthese rules:

a) graduate courses shall be treated to be those where theadmissionis sought after passing Matriculationorequivalent or +2 or equivalent examination, as the casemay be.

b) all other courses, where admission is obtained after passing degree examinations, e.g. LL.B., MBBS, B.Ed., B.P.Ed.,B.Ub. etc. will be clubbed with other postgraduate courses like M.A., M.Sc., M.Com., M.Ub., M.Ed. etc.

3. Only students, who are less than 25 years of age as on firstJuly of the academic year in which the tournament is held,can participate.

4. A student employed on full time basis shall not be eligible toparticipate.

5. A student shall not be allowed to represent more than one. University during a single academic year.

6. Provisional admission to a course or Univesity shall not makethe student eligible to represent the University.

7. In case of a student migrating from one University to another,his/her migration case will be considered eligible only afterhis/her admission in the new university is regularised andhe/she is admitted as a bonafide student by the new university.

B. Explanations

1. In case of students changing from one course to another theperiod spent in the previous council before joining the newcourse shall be counted towards total period of eligibility.

2. One year meanS the academic year in which the tournamentis held irrespective of whether the students result is declaredor not. It will normally extend from June/July of one year for12 calendar months to the next year.

C. Disqualifications

For violation of eligibility rules:

1. Any disqualification of a player on grounds of ineligibility willresult in the automatic scratching of Ute team for thatacademic year. The team shall also be debarred from participating in the. tournament (in that game) to be held in thefollowing year.

2. A player disqualified on the grounds of ineligibility shall notbe permitted to ,participate in University tournaments in thenext year.

3. Those players, who are selected for the Indian UniversitiesTeams to participate in the National Level Tournaments if theyrepresent some other organisations without the permission of

AIU they shall be debarred from participation in the Inter- University Tournaments.

INTEGRITY OF SPORTS:

Integrity is the integration of outward actions and inner values. A person with integrity does what they say they will do in accordance with their values, beliefs and principles. A person of integrity can be trusted because he or she never veers from inner values, even when it might be expeditious to do so. A key to integrity, therefore, is consistency of actions that are viewed as honest and truthful to inner values.

A sport that displays integrity can often be recognised as honest and genuine in its dealings, championing good sportsmanship, providing safe, fair and inclusive environments for all involved. It will be also expected to ‘play by the rules’ that are defined by its code.

A sport that generally displays integrity has a level of community confidence, trust and support behind them. The impact of this on their business cannot be underestimated.

Integrity in Sport can lead to:

• increased participation - loyalty of members and the attraction of new members
• financially viable - through membership, attraction of sponsors and funding grants
• on field success - attraction of players who want to be associated with a healthy, successful brand.

Activities and behaviours that define sport as lacking integrity include: creating an unfair advantage or the manipulation of results through performance enhancing drugs, match fixing or tanking. Anti-social behaviours demonstrated by parents, spectators, coaches and players are also a significant integrity issue for sport. Such behaviours may include bullying, harassment, discrimination and child abuse.

The integrity of a sport will be judged by its participants, spectators, sponsors, the general public and more often than not, the media. The survival of a sport therefore relies on ensuring that ‘the sport is the same on the outside as it is on the inside’ and remains true to its values, principles and rules.

VALUES OF SPORTS:

The typical “values” approach is to bring people together – in a professional sporting club this may mean coaches, management, staff and players – and ask them work together to come up with a set of words which express who they are as a group, what they believe in and what they stand for.

The Big Ten Values:

1. Honesty
2. Integrity
3. Humility
4. Professionalism
5. Discipline
6. Toughness or some variation like ruthless, hard-core etc
7. Work ethic
8. Enjoyment / fun
9. Passion
10. Respect

There are many, many others: you could add values like “pride”, “passion”, “team-spirit” and even “determination” – but when it comes to the Values thrown around in a sporting club or sporting program these ten are the most common.

1. There is no doubt that a sporting organisation whichaspires to greatness needs more than just a nice office, talented athletes and hard working coaches to realise its full potential;
2. Values can be the underpinning strength – the character – the cultural driving forces behind success if they have real meaning and relevance;
3. The key to creating and sustaining a values based sporting organisation is Living Values: living the values in everything you do, every time, every day.