Summer reading list for Coaches

Posted On Monday, 08th August 2011 at 07:01

What books are you reading this summer?

It seems to be the time to read more books, not sure whether that is due to rubbish tv, more people on holiday, or less email traffic. Here are some of mine.

"How to help Children find the Champion within themselves". David Hemery

 This is a great little book, easy to read, but with valuable insights into coaching young people. A must read for the enthusiastic parent, or coach of yongsters.

It is broken down into sections for the parent and for the coach- how to do things at home as well as on the field. The cartoons throughout aid the process. Useful tips on the communication process.

Beyond Winning: The timeless wisdom of great philosopher coaches. Gary Walton

A biographical book of 6 great  (mostly American) coaches: Woody Hayes, John Wooden, Vince Lombardi, James "Doc" Counsilman, Brutus Hamilton and Percy Cerutty.

The premise here is that these coaches added something more than just tactical and technical nouse to the field of coaching.The book has a chapter on each and a summary chapter of the essence of philosopher coaching.

A useful book for more experienced coaches on how they are developing their practice.

This isn't a textbook: A somewhat intemperate look at sport, teaching, Coaching and life. Kelvin Giles

A collection of thoughts, blogs and experiences from the past 20 years or so from this very experienced coach. Another easy read, although I made the mistake of taking it on holiday and kept reflecting on my own practices rather than relaxing. (Not to self, only take fiction and hisory books again).

It is interspersed with good motivational quotes, that break up the reading. The format may not suit a beginner, as there is no progression. I found it useful as I could relate to a lot of it. It does offer some training principles and reinforces the need for movement efficency before metabolic conditioning.

"Don't let the music die within you." Wayne Bennett

I read the updated version by this great rugby league coach. It has insights into how he deals with the media, young players, loyalty and leadership. The writing is quite simplistic (maybe aimed at rugby league players) and is pleasant enough, but not ground breaking.

The chapter on "duty of care" is recently added and very relevant to today.

One for the fans maybe, or perhaps I have just read a lot of these types of books.

 Have you got any favourites you could recommend?