The Hidden Power of Small Rituals in Coaching
As a coach, you’ve likely heard plenty about strategy, drills, and game plans — but what about the power of small rituals? These seemingly simple moments can have a profound impact on connection, performance, confidence, and emotional wellbeing, whether you’re coaching kids or adults.
Let’s explore how integrating small rituals into your coaching practice can transform how teams train, connect, and grow — and why they might just be your secret weapon to a more rewarding coaching experience.
What Are Small Rituals in Coaching?
Small rituals are purposeful, repeatable actions that help create structure, habit, and meaning. They aren’t the big, grand gestures — they’re the consistent high-fives before every session, the five-minute gratitude chats after practice, or the simple breathing exercises that start a warm-up. They give players something to look forward to — and something to lean on.
These routines can be physical, emotional, or relational. What matters most is that they’re done with intention and consistency.
Why Do Small Rituals Matter?
Small rituals help players — young or adult — feel safe, connected, and part of something bigger. Here’s why they’re so powerful:
- Build confidence through familiarity: Repeating the same calming preparation ritual before a match or training creates a sense of control, particularly important for younger or anxious athletes.
- Boost team culture and connection: Shared rituals (like group chants or circle-ups) create belonging and fun, even in diverse ability groups.
- Support emotional development: Predictable routines help children manage transitions and regulate nervous energy. A short reflection at the end of a session helps them build emotional awareness.
- Increase focus and mindset: Rituals like positive self-talk or visualisation can help adult athletes shift gears after work and become more present for training.
This blog from Inner Drive provides some great tips on how to develop Psychological Safety.
Examples of Coaching Rituals You Can Start Today
Whether you’re coaching primary-age kids new to sport or a community-level adult team, here are some easy-to-integrate rituals:
For Youth Athletes:
- “High-Five Line” to start and end every session: Quick and cheerful — this helps set the tone and celebrate effort, no matter the outcome.
- Ball of Gratitude: End practice by passing a ball around; each player shares one thing they enjoyed or learned.
- Pre-game breath break: One minute of slow breathing as a team reinforces calmness and readiness.
For Adult Athletes:
- Arrival Check-in: 30-second partner check-in at the start of each session supports connection and accountability.
- Post-game reflection ritual: Use questions like “What went well?” or “Who supported the team today?” to promote a growth mindset.
- Visualisation cues: Encouraging players to mentally rehearse their first play or movement during warm-up can boost confidence and performance — mental rehearsal is a proven tool in performance psychology.
“I’m Busy – Are Rituals Really Worth the Time?”
One of the biggest concerns for time-poor coaches is fitting more into already tight sessions. The good news? Small rituals don’t have to take long — and the time they save in focus, cohesion, and emotional regulation soon adds up.
These moments may last seconds, but their effects linger: athletes settle quicker, behaviour improves, and team bonds deepen. As explained in this article there a number of of benefits to small rituals, but there are some downsides too if not managed properly.
How to Introduce Rituals Without Feeling Awkward
Let’s be honest — trying something new (like a team chant or mindfulness minute) can feel uncomfortable at first. Here’s how to ease in:
- Start small and explain the ‘why’: Let players know the purpose behind the ritual: “We’re doing this to get in the zone and have fun together.”
- Make it collaborative: Involve your group in choosing or creating the ritual. Adults and kids alike love feeling part of it.
- Be consistent: The power of a ritual lies in repetition. Stick with it for at least 3–4 weeks to give it meaning.
Final Thoughts: Small Rituals, Big Impact
You don’t need to overhaul your coaching to see results — even one or two carefully chosen rituals can transform your sessions. They bring rhythm to your practice, lift spirits when things are tough, and can keep athletes coming back for more.
Whether you’re coaching eight-year-olds or 38-year-olds, rituals create something special — a predictable moment of purpose that helps people show up, connect, and grow.
Remember: It’s these little moments, done with care and intention, that help athletes not just play better — but feel better too.
