Good Communication is Essential for Cheerleaders and Coaches
I recently came across a book by Bobbi DePorter called: The 7 Biggest Teen Problems and How to Turn Them Into Strengths. In the handbook that accompanies the book, Ms. DePorter describes a communication system that can easily be adapted by cheerleaders and cheer coaches - it’s called the OTFD or Open the Front Door.
In this system, O stands for Observe; T = Thought; F = Feelings; and D = Desire. Here’s how it works: In any interpersonal communication, especially when there is tension or the potential for conflict, start with sharing what it is you have Observed, then the Thought that accompanies this Observation. Then, state the Feeling you have about this and finally ask what it is you want to happen (Desire).
As an example, let’s say you’re a cheer coach and a member of your squad (Suzie) is chronically late for practice. Here’s how you can handle the situation using OTFD:
Suzie, you have been late for practice 6 times over the last month. (Observation)
My thought is that you have lost your commitment to the squad. (Thought)
This both worries and annoys me. (Feeling)
I want and expect you to appear on time for all future practices. (Desire)
Now, there might be more you would say in this instance but the OTFD framework helps you to step back from the emotional heat of the moment to gather your thoughts and feelings and find a way to communicate them.
Tags: cheerleader, cheerleaders, Cheerleading, coach, Communication