10-27-22 09:50 AM - Post#922857    

Hello all,

I'm trying to come up with some resources (books) to help my son and I understand sports leadership more deeply. The primary goal is to support him as a captain on his hockey team.

I've got some "natural" leadership ability/command presence that I can draw on when necessary. Although, generally my style is more soft and thoughtful (former professor, surprise?) and rarely force-of-will. Neither my son nor I would say that he has either style as a strength. He does possess a good work ethic, great and resilient general attitude and demeanor, and has respect from his teammates based on his size and skill. Hence, the search to improve on the leadership front. (And, yes, his team is in desperate need of some peer-leadership.)

Two books that have been recommended to me are:

Legacy by James Kerr (about the New Zealand All-Blacks rugby team)

Catch them Being Good by Tony DiCicco and Colleen Hacker (US Women's Soccer)

The first is styled as a general leadership book. The second seems more geared towards a coach. Both seem well regarded. I haven't read either.

If you've read this far, I'm particularly looking for books in this realm that folks have read and loved.

Thanks,
Mark

10-28-22 04:03 AM - Post#922867    

Although not a sport specific book the best leadership book and advice I’ve ever read is “Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the world” by Admiral William MCraven. He’s a proven leaderI that gives life lessons that can be applied in nearly any situation. Highly recommended

10-29-22 10:05 AM - Post#922886    

For me, Think like a Freak was a gamechanger in coaching and leadership.

Parkinson's Law and Think like a Freak both give you a lot of the truth about leadership and the insights kept me on track.

If you can get the original edition of J K Doherty's Track and Field Omnibook, the section on Holistic coaching is really good.

It might be worth looking at some Peer Ministry resources. I used to have some (I'm still in Vermont so I can't look at my library), but they can be very good.

Daniel John Just handing down what I was handed down... Make a Difference. Live. Love. Laugh. Balance work, rest, play and pray (enjoy beauty and solitude) Sleep soundly. Drink Water. Eat veggies and protein. Walk. Wear your seat belt. Don’t smoke. Floss your teeth. Put weights overhead. Pick weights off the floor. Carry weights. Reread great books. Say thank you

11-01-22 09:22 AM - Post#922941    

I'll definitely look into these. Thank you!

Incidentally, if you are headed home via Pennsylvania, I'm about 8 minutes off the interstate near Wilkes-Barre. If you need a cup of coffee (perfect after the 6-7 hrs from northern VT) or a meal, you are always welcome here.

Best,
Mark

• Dan John Said: