Benefits of becoming a club coach
By Jacqui Hineman
One trend that has been noticeable in some districts is the disproportionate numbers between female club coaches compared to male coaches. This is not unique to the sport of lawn bowls. Other sports are also finding there is a gap between the number of male and female coaches. As lawn bowls is a sport that provides an even playing field for all, Thorpy, and the state coaching committee, are exploring how we can engage more females to take up coaching roles.
To help achieve this goal, I recently attended ladies day at Caloundra bowls club, where I spoke about the benefits of becoming a club coach. Afterwards, I was approached by three ladies who were eager to do the next accreditation course. As a result, I would like to extend an invitation to other clubs to request a visit from myself or other members of the coaching committee, to discuss not only the benefits of having more female coaches in your club, but also any barriers that may be preventing females from entering into coaching. Our coaches, whether male or female, are the best public relations officers bowls clubs can have. They are usually the first club member with whom prospective members will interact. Therefore, it is important that your club has a number of accredited coaches of both genders to step up and help new players discover the enjoyment and health benefits that playing a sport such as lawn bowls can bring.
During this time of apprehension and uncertainty, our clubs along with our coaches provide the human interaction and physical activity that is needed for a healthy mind, and a healthy body. In other words, every time a coach engages a new player they are increasing the health and well-being at both the individual level, as well as the community level. A healthy community starts with increasing the health of the individuals living within that community.
A coach’s role does not end after a new bowler has their first game. Club coaches have the skills too; conducting drill sessions for pennant training, one-on-one training for experienced bowlers, fault correction, working with selectors, and providing players with information to help improve their performance. There is an increasing number of bowlers who are becoming accredited club coaches so they can promote their junior players and ensure the sustainability of their club. During the club coach course you will gain a better understanding of the constants and variables, and the role they have in achieving consistency. The club coach course is held over two days. The course is conducted by presenters and assessors who are there to help you throughout the competency-based course.
So if you are a good communicator, like helping others, and love the sport, why not consider becoming a club coach?
