Being too serious can kill players' enthusiasm for a game. We all know of potentially good athletes who get burned out too early because coaches forgot that sports would be enjoyable. We need to show that we can make mistakes, but learn to bounce back and overcome them. Players need to believe they can also overcome a bad play or a bad day, and they will, if the coach is willing to demonstrate the same quality. The last and most important trait for a coach to possess is integrity, which is comprised of several components.
Loyalty is critically important.
As coaches we are part of a big fraternity, and we must stick together, especially in public. Problems and concerns that exist among a coaching staff should remain behind closed doors. We owe our players this same loyalty if we want their respect. Being honest and fair are also components of integrity. Coaches should be up front and honest with their players.