8 STRATEGIES IN MAINTAINING YOUR WORK LIFE BALANCE AS HIGH SCHOOL COACH
Finding Balance: Insights from the NHSACA Webinar on Work-Life Balance for High School Coaches
High school coaching is a role that demands passion, commitment, and countless hours of dedication to student-athletes and their development. Yet, even the most devoted coaches face a recurring challenge—how to balance the demands of coaching with personal life. This issue was the focus of a recent collaboration National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA) and the Iowa Girls Coaches Association (IGCA) webinar, "8 Strategies for Maintaining Your Work-Life Balance as a High School Coach." facilitated by Scott Garvis NHSACA Executive Director, Joel Sullivan IGCA Executive Director &
Curt Klaahsen IGCA Mentorship Coordinator.
Key Topics and Strategies Discussed
The webinar, facilitated by NHSACA President Scott Jarvis, covered eight essential strategies for maintaining work-life balance, offering practical advice and addressing common challenges:
- Setting Boundaries
Coaches were encouraged to establish clear boundaries between their professional and personal lives. This includes communicating expectations to athletes, parents, and coaching staff while resisting the pressure to be "always on." - Prioritizing Time with Loved Ones
The importance of intentionally scheduling family time was a recurring theme. Coaches were reminded that being present with loved ones not only recharges them but also models healthy priorities for their teams. - Delegating Responsibilities
Delegation emerged as a critical tool for avoiding burnout. Whether it’s empowering assistant coaches or involving team leaders, sharing responsibilities fosters trust and reduces stress. - Unplugging and Taking Breaks
Reflection and disconnection from work were highlighted as vital practices. Coaches were encouraged to step away from technology and create space for mental and emotional rejuvenation. - Modeling Healthy Lifestyles
Coaches shape young lives both on and off the field. By prioritizing their physical and emotional health, they demonstrate the value of balance to their athletes. - Using Tools to Stay Organized
The Eisenhower Matrix—a tool for prioritizing tasks—was introduced to help coaches manage time effectively and focus on what truly matters. - Accepting Imperfection
The webinar underscored the importance of embracing realistic expectations. Striving for balance doesn’t mean achieving perfection, but rather finding what works best during different seasons of life. - Seeking Support and Mentorship
Coaches were encouraged to lean on their networks, including mentors and peers, to navigate challenges and stay grounded.
Building on Success
The webinar drew participation from over 50 coaches and received positive feedback for its practical advice and relatable insights. The NHSACA Member Association IGCA also launched a new YouTube channel, ensuring these discussions remain accessible to a broader audience.
Looking Ahead
As coaching continues to evolve, NHSACA remains committed to supporting its members. Future webinars will explore topics like building positive team cultures, boosting participation, and end-of-season best practices. By equipping coaches with tools and strategies, the organization aims to extend the longevity and joy of their careers.
The NHSACA applauds the dedication of coaches who balance the demands of their profession with personal commitments. As the conversation concluded, one message resonated deeply: maintaining balance is not about perfection, but about intentionality and the ongoing pursuit of what matters most.
Stay tuned to the IGCA & NHSACA YouTube channel for recordings and upcoming webinars. Together, we can ensure that the passion for coaching continues to thrive without compromising personal well-being.
Member discussion