Ask someone what makes a great coach, and you’ll often hear words like technician, strategist, or expert. And while all those things matter, I’d argue that the true measure of a great coach lies not in their knowledge of technique, but in their ability to bring out the best in others.

Coaching is, at its core, a human craft.

Yes, you must understand the mechanics of a double leg takedown, how to break down fight tape, or teach the nuances of a barbell snatch. But none of that matters if you can’t transmit that knowledge in a way that ignites something in your athlete — a spark, a belief, a hunger.

That’s the difference between instructing and coaching.

Why Great Athletes Don’t Always Make Great Coaches

Some of the most dominant athletes in history never made the leap into great coaching. Think of Michael Jordan — the most iconic basketball player to ever live. His killer instinct was legendary. But as an executive and mentor, his standard was so high and his talent so otherworldly that he struggled to connect with players who weren’t built like him.

It’s a common theme. Wayne Gretzky, the “Great One,” had a relatively forgettable stint behind the bench in the NHL. He once admitted that it was hard to teach players what came to him naturally — that what he “saw” on the ice couldn’t always be explained.

Why? Because being great at something doesn’t mean you can teach it. And more importantly, it doesn’t mean you can inspire others to pursue greatness on their own path.

So What Does Make a Great Coach?

In my experience — and maybe yours too — great coaches are translators of potential. They take what’s inside you, often buried under insecurity or fear, and they bring it to the surface. Here’s what they consistently do:

• They connect. They understand that every athlete is different. Some respond to fire, others to calm. Some need detail, others need simplicity. Great coaches listen deeply so they can speak each athlete’s language.
• They believe in people before those people believe in themselves. A great coach will see the greatness in you long before you ever do. They hold the vision when you’re doubting yourself.
• They transmit knowledge with enthusiasm. It’s not just what they know — it’s how they deliver it. When a coach lights up while teaching, when they bring energy and passion into the room, that energy is contagious.
• They care more about people than performance. That might sound strange in a competitive sport — but ironically, when athletes feel seen, valued, and supported, they perform better.

Technique Without Connection Is Useless

You can be the most brilliant tactician in the world — but if your athletes aren’t engaged, inspired, or emotionally invested, that knowledge hits a wall. Coaching isn’t a download; it’s a transmission.

And that transmission? It runs on trust. On presence. On passion.

So yes, study your craft. Know the difference between a low single and a high crotch. Understand energy systems, periodization, and recovery. But never forget — your most important role as a coach is not to mold athletes into your image, but to help them become the best version of themselves.

And that starts with connection.

Because when people feel seen, heard, and believed in — they do incredible things.