Sports education encompasses a broad spectrum of energy and dynamism. Behind the excellent performance are the rigors of proper conditioning, constant practice and committed training. Needless to say, even a complete athlete with skills and talent will not be competitive in the absence of a mentor, trainer or a coach.

            The highlight in any sports event is always punctuated with a win, but for every victory and triumph there is always a story to tell. The process is long, tedious and can be emotionally and mentally draining. The more competitive an event, the minds of coaches and trainer are more contemplative on better things to do to motivate their athletes.

            Even endowed with natural talent and skill or just possessing the raw qualities, a coach can distinguish the athletic potential of an individual based on attitude. Attitude is the core value of a potential competitor, since it is the key to other areas of individual development. After attitude, commitment comes next which is vital to keep abreast with the grueling tasks involved in training and honing of skills in molding athletes.

            It is not only the fitness of the physical body which counts in being competitive. There is also a need to establish balance with the other aspects of the nit and grit activity. To be in fluid harmony, a good coach has to build on the foundation of mental and emotional equilibrium which is necessary for the coordination of the body, mind and heart. The absence of any one of the three will mean a handicap for an individual or a sports team because it will have an effect in their performance. With a well-coordinated preparation, as mentor the coach will have to put emphasis so that the athletes can give their focus on the game. Game focus requires the body, mind, and willingness to achieve goals. It is fitness working side by side with the mental and emotional faculties for the athletes to have the proper mindset.  Any unattended distraction going on with an athlete or within the team is a concern that a good coach needs to look into.

            In any sports event, game or competition, all the result  can either be a win or a defeat. A good trainer coach refrains from blaming his athletes for not making it to the top. Rather, like a father to his children, the better coach will impart the learning gained in every experience after the game is over; to win humbly and to lose with respect. 

By: ANTONIETO R. PRADO | Teacher III | Bataan National High School | City of Balanga, Bataan