- Joined
- Nov 19, 2010
What makes a good coach?
At the elite level, when it's no more about foundational skills and basic techniques, a great coach is not necessarily the best athlete of the sport him/herself. E.g. Bin Yao who consistently placed last in his competitive career. No coaches, can actually do what the top skaters can do today, even in their prime. It's not about teaching what they can or could do.
A good coach understands the techniques theoretically, has keen observation and good communication skills to impart the know how to adjust whatever needs adjustment. Easier said than done. Being able to give advice and directives needs to be matched with being able to accept, understand and execute for real desired results.
The relationship of a skater and his/her coach is important as well as the needs and objectives of the skater at various stages of his/her development. The right coach motivates and brings out the best of the skater.
I don't look down on Kathy Johnson as Patrick's skating coach. She knows how human body moves more than most skating coaches. Patrick perfected his quad by learning to use his core from her, and this basic knowledge and application improve all movements. At his level, what he needs is someone who knows his skills, where he is at technically and mentally, can spot the subtle nuances, and can impart the know how to him, Patrick Chan. And it's him who knows who suits him best, someone he trusts and respects, can count on for advice and to be there for him when he needs it.
As someone always seeking to be better, Patrick finds mentors and inspiration all the time, sometimes by direct consultation, other times through learning about the role models. I'm sure he would get himself technical coaching if he needs it.
At the elite level, when it's no more about foundational skills and basic techniques, a great coach is not necessarily the best athlete of the sport him/herself. E.g. Bin Yao who consistently placed last in his competitive career. No coaches, can actually do what the top skaters can do today, even in their prime. It's not about teaching what they can or could do.
A good coach understands the techniques theoretically, has keen observation and good communication skills to impart the know how to adjust whatever needs adjustment. Easier said than done. Being able to give advice and directives needs to be matched with being able to accept, understand and execute for real desired results.
The relationship of a skater and his/her coach is important as well as the needs and objectives of the skater at various stages of his/her development. The right coach motivates and brings out the best of the skater.
I don't look down on Kathy Johnson as Patrick's skating coach. She knows how human body moves more than most skating coaches. Patrick perfected his quad by learning to use his core from her, and this basic knowledge and application improve all movements. At his level, what he needs is someone who knows his skills, where he is at technically and mentally, can spot the subtle nuances, and can impart the know how to him, Patrick Chan. And it's him who knows who suits him best, someone he trusts and respects, can count on for advice and to be there for him when he needs it.
As someone always seeking to be better, Patrick finds mentors and inspiration all the time, sometimes by direct consultation, other times through learning about the role models. I'm sure he would get himself technical coaching if he needs it.
To think, 100 pages ago we were still trying to process what happened in Sochi and looking for any evidence of Patrick smiling and enjoying the rest of his Olympic experience. Look at us now -- celebrating Patrick's "bonus" comeback and discussing his current place in the skating world. Right after the Sochi LP, I was SO SAD because I thought that might be the end of Patrick's competitive career. I'm SO THRILLED to have been wrong about that. 
