Trade A Little Time and Be A Better Coach…….and A Happier Person!

The time that coaches give to their communities is extremely important! It used to be that Dad was the coach, but we know times have changed significantly for the better and we are seeing more and more moms becoming involved as leaders and coaches in their communities.

As coaches, we also have the opportunity to gain so many tremendous experiences through coaching. The following story is about Gloria Koop, a mom, a coach, and someone who sees not only the opportunity to give to her community, but the great things she has gained as a coach in her community.

Gloria Koop, who has coached her own children in mini soccer at Robert A. Steen Community Centre for six years, said she became involved at first because her eldest daughter’s team needed a coach. She said she has grown to love the interaction with her own children and others in the community but said education was a key.

“Right away I took the community centre coaching course so I felt that I received some skills and insight into doing the job that I didn’t necessarily feel completely comfortable with at first. It can be a little overwhelming,” said Koop, mom to Emma, 10, Adam, eight and Mira, six.

“I have become a better person as a result of coaching. It’s a builder. It’s something you get a tremendous reward from. I’ve coached so many kids in the community, I know everyone! The kids love you. Is there any better reward than some little kid telling you how great you are and how much fun they’ve had? They know and their parents know, that it couldn’t have happened without you.”

Ashley Prest - Winnipeg Free Press

In honour of Mother's Day, Coaching Manitoba will be offering a clinic specifically for women in the coming months.

This will be a course for women, taught by women, and will include a few extras for all to enjoy!

Check out the May 22nd issue of Coaches Clipboard for more details.