Coaching is more than just planning drills and managing teams—it’s about nurturing people. Whether you’re on the sidelines of a children’s football game, organising a community running session, or diving deep into coaching methodologies, thoughtful reflection can elevate your coaching impact. Asking the right questions helps you steer your sessions, relationships, and decisions with more intention and clarity.
So, what should you be asking yourself as a coach? Let’s explore five powerful coaching questions that will support your growth—and your players’ too—no matter what level or sport you’re involved in.
1. “What does success look like for my players?”
Success isn’t always the scoreboard. For many players—especially kids or those returning to sport later in life—success may mean feeling included, increasing confidence, or simply enjoying the session. As a coach, defining success from your players’ perspective helps shape meaningful goals and motivates consistent effort.
Try asking your team directly: “What do you want to get out of today’s session?” Their answers might surprise you—and guide you.
2. “Am I being truly inclusive?”
Sports are for everyone. But inclusion doesn’t happen by accident—it’s a conscious decision. Have you designed activities that welcome different levels of ability, confidence, and communication styles? Are quieter participants being heard? Are there cultural or accessibility barriers to consider?
This question is especially important for adult participation coaches balancing a mix of beginners and experienced players. Take a look at Buddle’s resources on creating inclusive environments for some practical next steps. You can also explore our Blog ‘5 ways to be inclusive in your coaching‘.
3. “What do I want them to remember about this session?”
Think back to your favourite coach. You may remember a moment of encouragement, not the exact drill. Each session leaves an emotional memory—so what do you want that to be?
- For Coach Kerry, it might be that a young player felt brave enough to try a new skill.
- For Coach Dan, maybe it’s a sense of belonging after a tough week at work.
Try starting your planning with emotional objectives: “Today, I want my players to feel…” Then work backward to choose coaching activities that support that goal.
4. “Am I giving athletes room to lead?”
Great coaching isn’t about being the expert in the centre—it’s about sharing ownership. Whether you’re coaching kids or adults, giving players the chance to lead warm-ups, suggest ideas, or set goals helps build autonomy and confidence.
Sport NZ has a brilliant overview of youth sport principles that encourage athlete empowerment, if you’re looking for inspiration.
5. “How am I growing as a coach?”
Asking yourself how you’re evolving is a powerful habit. Have you tried something new recently? Reflected on a session that didn’t go as planned? Read or listened to different coaching perspectives?
For “The Curious Coach,” reflection is the fuel for progress. If you’re not already doing so, consider using a simple coaching journal or exploring reflective models like Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle to embed learning.
Final Thoughts
These five questions aren’t an extra task—they’re a mindset shift. By taking a moment to reflect before and after your sessions, you’ll begin to see deeper connections and lasting change in both your coaching and your athletes’ experiences.
Whether you’re coaching a team of seven-year-olds or supporting adult newcomers to sport, these reflective check-ins help you coach with greater impact and purpose.
