Positive Athlete-Coach Communications Ohio State Coach John Cooper may never forget his team's defeat on Nov. 7. Coaches who understand the importance of athlete-coach relationships are more likely to build successful teams. While many believe that the spontaneous tirade is effective, it can be counterproductive. Strong athlete-coach relationships may not guarantee a win, but they build trust within a team and improve its long term prospects. These situations are the same kinds that coaches face every day.
Pressure is a fundamental aspect of sports, so what counts is how coaches handle it.
The key is to develop a philosophy of open communication and stick with it. Coaches can't allow the situation or environment dictate their reaction, for if they do, they will lose the confidence of their team, their organization, and the public. This was in spite of attempts made by his peers to save his career with glowing endorsements during the WAC coaches' conference on Nov. 16. He will stay through the season ender against South Carolina on Nov. 21. South Carolina's Brad Scott, whose team is 1-9, is rumored to be in danger of losing his job as well.