Under the educational model of sports, coaches are first and foremost teachers. Their success is measured not by victories and records, but by the extent to which they help their athletes improve their skills and become better people. Placing Athletes Welfare First . Sports programs sincerely dedicated to the educational model insist that coaches put the overall welfare of the athlete above other considerations. Sports as a Setting for Learning .
Sports provides a receptive setting for teaching and learning.
Because the vast majority of youngsters who participate in sports are highly motivated, coaches have unusual influence and authority as educators. Supporting Academic Goals . Coaches who understand their role as teachers place great emphasis on assuring that the athletic experience supplements and enriches the academic education of student-athletes it should never undermine it. Thus, coaches must be vigilant to perceive and deal with students who are not giving adequate attention to their schoolwork. Educational Value of Competing .