Grown up in a family of teachers and having been a teacher myself, I have learned the importance of dealing with discipline issues the correct way. Below I have outlined some tips that have helped me along the way. When you enter the field of coaching or training, you often don’t think of having to deal with poor behavior. Being prepared will make dealing with bad behavior much easier.

  1. Always make your expectations clear from the beginning. If your athletes understand exactly what is expected of them they should not have any doubt when they crossed the line.
  2. Allow some input in the beginning or at least have discussion as to why you are doing what you’re doing. In the old days kids just listened and did what they were told. We are dealing with a different population of kids now. They are easy distracted and stimulated differently. You can help yourself a lot by giving your expectations and than explaining why you have these expectations and how it will help them everyone in the long run. Allow them to ask questions.
  3. Give examples of what you will not allow. If you simply give them your rules and regulations but leave out common examples you might miss a key element of making sure they get a clear picture. This will back up your expectations.
  4. Do not allow the problem to stay in front of the team. Most trouble makers like an audience. Get them away from the team or training group as soon as possible. Deal with the problem as swiftly as possible and protect the team or group.

I have had my share of trouble makers when I was a teacher. I did my very best to eliminate the problem ASAP. The longer you mess with trouble makers and don’t confront the problem the longer there will be distractions. I am a big fan of giving kids the opportunity to improve their behavior but I do not allow continued poor behavior.

Love to hear what you might do with discipline cases.