Character Coach / Sports Chaplain Blog

As a part of the Nations of Coaches Character Coach training, we have been sharing the process I use to create simple, brief Character Moments. They may be discussions aimed at engaging everyone in sharing their thoughts, or they may be talks, where I’m sharing thoughts to inspire and motivate. The Character Moments may be “values based,” meaning I am not using scripture or they may be “faith based,” where I am having the Bible directly shape the ideas expressed. Below are some slides directly from the training and instructions that add some depth to each. A critical part of the process is to discuss with the team’s head coach (or whoever has given you entrance) the logistical details for the Character Moments. Where shall we meet (Locker room, players’ lounge, meeting room)? On what day and time? How much time do I get for this (15-30 minutes works very well for a discussion, 5-7 for a talk is plenty)? How often shall I meet with the players (weekly, bi-weekly)? Shall I do this ...

The article below was recently published by The Times . It was written by our friend and colleague, Stuart Weir of Verité Sport. In light of the rise in awareness of mental health issues in sport, Stuart’s article is most timely. I hope it is of value to you. CREDO | STUART WEIR An Olympics where it’s OK not to be OK is the winner Stuart Weir Saturday August 21 2021, 12.01am, The Times I was privileged to be at the recent Olympic Games in Tokyo as a sports writer, but also trying to offer some spiritual support to athletes. One of the issues to emerge from the experience of sport in a pandemic has been consideration of the mental health of athletes.   The American gymnast Simone Biles had the courage and honesty to talk about the challenges that she faced. At one level she had it all — world champion by the age of 16, four Olympic gold medals at the age of 19. Yet she said that gymnastics was all consuming, resulting in some undesirable side effects. She said that in To...

Last week we hosted a Zoominar yesterday with many of our colleagues from around the world participating. This link will take you to the recording of the very informative discussion. https://youtu.be/7qYPLO6gaGM The show notes on YouTube also list a number of resources and suggested links from our guests. It was the first in a series of Zoominars that will take place on the first Thursday of each month through May of 2022. In addition, Marla Butterworth and I are also offering these informative discussions as a new podcast. Each installment will include show notes with chapter headings to allow the listener to jump forward to the most relevant questions to him or her. The next two are shown in these graphics. Please join us live on 7 October and 4 November, or via YouTube or podcast.