Assuming a new role or key position? I'm not. But what if I were? Even though Doc Rivers coaches, he isn't running a medical practice.
In Discover Your Truth North, Bill George discusses the importance of finding our sweet spot. He examines the legendary career of Warren Buffett, his ethos and commitment to learning and teaching. George says the sweet spot balances internal and external motivation, strengths and weaknesses.
Start the what ifs with the Sara Blakely "Make it, sell it, build awareness." But start with relationships.
Meet returning players individually. Find out their personal and team goals, their assessment of strengths and weaknesses, and what they expect to contribute to the team. Ask what they are doing to improve themselves and what they are reading.
Meet as many parents as possible. Ask "what matters to you" and "what are your goals, expectations, and dreams?" Opportunity, fairness, playing time, and roles are in the little "bubble over the head" in this cartoon.
I enjoy interacting with parents. They want something positive for their child as do I. And most seasons, the kids improve and have fun.
Sure, somebody will ask about running Flex, zone press, or Patty Mills and Eddie Mabo, but most parents won't be as into it as you are. We can always throw 'em, "how do you feel about what they did to SVG?" If they don't have a quizzical look, then serious basketball discussion could be in order.
Share ideas about basketball philosophy, identity, and culture. We're in charge of coaching not politics, religion, or economic policy. As a girls' coach, I believe in excellence, women's empowerment and sharing narrative examples - Francis Perkins, Arlene Blum, Doris Kearns Goodwin.
Promote advancement of players. Calls, media interviews, letters of recommendation, and cultivating relationships with college coaches matter. Coaches are stewards of dreams.
Ground rules for conversations. Discussion about other players, playing time, and strategy are off limits. A "24 hour" delay after games is analogous to Lincoln's "hot letters" (written not sent). Avoid conversations in the heat of the moment.
Team Rules. I'm not big on having a lot of rules which makes enforcement easier. If your grandparents' fiftieth anniversary coincides with a practice (doubtful), I expect you to meet family obligations. If you choose to go to a concert over practice, that's another matter. Can't make practice or are ill. Let me know.
Lagniappe (something extra).
How do elite teams and players create separation?
Lagniappe 2. "Every day is player development day." Points of emphasis. "One more" pass. Crisp, accurate passes. Be "shot ready" on the catch.