Motivating a Cheerleading Team – Part II
If we are smart, we try to learn from people smarter than us! Cheerleading coaches have tough (and rewarding) jobs. One of the best athletic coaches ever – John Wooden – was a master motivator. Here is some more of his wisdom.
It’s important to praise your cheerleaders when they work hard and do well however be judicious in offering praise. Positive words become meaningless when offered excessively. Don’t make it a habit – think about what you are praising.
Coach Wooden avoided the phrase, “That’s great!” Instead, he would say, “Good, very good. That’s getting better.” Or, “That’s the idea. Now you’re getting it. Good.” His tone was controlled and measured and he only said what he truly believed.
This meant that the athletes believed him and worded to get his praise. It meant something; it wasn’t empty.
For most athletes, being able to play their sport is a carrot and taking away “playing” time becomes a “fearful stick.” There is no need to scream or yell. If discipline is required, sometimes removing something that is valued can be a powerful motivator.
Coach Wooden said that great leaders “…are experts in the appropriate use of the carrot and the stick. And they also understand that you discipline those under your supervision to correct, to help, to improve – not to punish.”
What about dictator-style coaches? Coach Wooden said, “…the fear and ill feeling that arise from intimidation, punishment, and cruel words have far less power than pride.”
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Tags: cheerleader, cheerleaders, Cheerleading, coach, Coaching, John Wooden, motivation