5 Books Every Coach Should Read (And Why?)
Introduction
As coaches, we’re often focused on helping others grow — but great coaching starts with learning ourselves.
Over the years, these five books have shaped how I think, how I lead, and how I coach. Whether you’re new to coaching or years into your journey, I believe each of these reads offers something powerful.
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Book #1: Legacy by James Kerr
Theme: Culture, team identity, leadership
Why it matters:
Based on the All Blacks, this book is a masterclass in how elite culture is built – and maintained. It’s helped me reflect on how I create standards, expectations, and pride in the environments I coach in.
Book #2: The Inner Game of Tennis by W. Timothy Gallwey
Theme: Mindset, performance, self-talk
Why it matters:
This is less about tennis and more about how we coach the space between the ears. It completely changed how I view confidence and pressure – in myself and in the athletes I support.
Book #3: The Talent Code by Daniel Coyle
Theme: Skill development, deep practice, coaching methods
Why it matters:
This book shows how talent is grown, not born – and how coaches can design better environments for learning. It challenged a lot of my assumptions about drills, feedback, and repetition.
Book #4: Coaching Better Every Season by Wade Gilbert
Theme: Coach development, planning, reflection
Why it matters:
Practical, research-informed, and full of useful tools. This is the book I wish I had when I started coaching. I go back to it at the start of every season.
Buy Coaching Better Every Season
Book #5: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
Theme: Leadership, vulnerability, trust
Why it matters:
Although not a “sports coaching” book, this one has helped me think more deeply about courage, connection, and the emotional side of leading people. Essential reading for any coach who wants to lead with heart.
Final Thoughts
Coaching is as much about who we are as what we do. These books have helped shape my coaching identity – and I’d love to hear what’s shaped yours.
Drop your favourite coaching book in the comments, or reply to the newsletter – I’m always up for a good read.
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