Coaching is one of the most rewarding roles you can take on –  whether you’re helping kids build confidence on the pitch, guiding adults towards new fitness goals, or simply sharing your love of sport. But let’s be honest: it can also be exhausting. If you’re feeling stretched too thin, you’re not alone. Burnout among volunteer coaches like Coach Kerry, Coach Dan, and The Curious Coach is more common than you might think.

Let’s dive into some practical, friendly advice to help you keep your energy high, your passion alive, and your sessions thriving.

Why Do Volunteer Coaches Experience Burnout?

You probably started coaching because you love sport and want to make a positive impact. But juggling coaching with family life, work, and personal commitments can quickly pile up. Some common reasons volunteer coaches feel burnt out include:

• Overcommitting: Saying yes to every opportunity without enough support.
• Lack of resources: Feeling underprepared or under-supported by your club or organization.
• Emotional loads: Managing behavioral challenges, anxious players, or parent expectations.
• Unrealistic expectations: Expecting yourself to be the perfect coach every session.

How to Spot the Early Signs of Burnout

Burnout doesn’t usually happen overnight. Look out for these warning signs:

• Constant fatigue, even after rest
• Loss of excitement or joy in coaching
• Feeling irritated or overwhelmed easily
• Thinking about quitting altogether

Recognizing these signs early is key to taking action before burnout sets in full force.

Top Tips for Avoiding Coaching Burnout

Don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to safeguard your well-being without stepping away from the role you love.

1. Set Healthy Boundaries

It’s okay to say no sometimes. You don’t have to lead every drill, organize every fundraiser, or coach every extra session. Protect your personal time fiercely. Here’s a helpful guide on setting healthy boundaries if you need some strategies.

2. Share the Load

Coaching doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Can a co-coach or team manager take on some responsibilities? Even involving parents to organize snacks or setup can make a big difference. Building a community around your team not only lightens your load but strengthens bonds too.

3. Be Realistic with Your Goals

It’s easy to get caught up wanting every player to improve dramatically each season. Focus on small wins, like increased confidence or better teamwork. Setting realistic goals keeps progress measurable and expectations manageable.

4. Prioritise Your Own Development

Feeling stuck or unsupported? Investing in your own growth can reignite your passion. Whether it’s attending a local workshop, chatting with other coaches, or diving into online resources like UK Coaching‘s resources, ongoing learning is a great energizer.

5. Stay Connected

Isolation can amplify stress. Swap ideas, frustrations, and laughs with fellow coaches. Online forums, coach meetups, and even starting a simple WhatsApp group can help you feel less alone in the journey.  Again UK Coaching’s Connected Coaches community may help you find your gang.

6. Remember Why You Started

On the tough days, take a moment to reflect: Why did you start coaching? The answer usually comes back to joy, impact, and love for the game. Keeping that front and center can reignite your motivation when it flickers.

FAQs About Coach Burnout

How can I manage stress during the season?

Prioritize self-care like regular exercise, healthy eating, and downtime. A short walk, a fun playlist, or a bit of mindfulness practice (try this mindfulness guide) can work wonders even on a busy day.

What if I feel guilty stepping back from coaching responsibilities?

It’s natural to feel a twinge of guilt, but remember: a happy, healthy coach is a more effective coach. Your team benefits more from your best self than from a worn-out one!

Where can I find extra support?

Your local club committee or governing body may offer resources, mentorship, or even mental health support. Never be afraid to ask for help – it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.

Final Whistle: Your Coaching Journey Matters

Burnout is real, but it doesn’t have to end your coaching journey. By setting boundaries, building support networks, staying connected to your purpose, and investing in yourself, you’ll put yourself in a great position to enjoy every practice, match, and post-game celebration to its fullest.

Need more tips on thriving as a coach? Check out articles like How to Deal with Coaching Stress or A Guide to Mental Health and Wellbeing for more great advice!