6.10 Mary Mills: Teach to the Athlete

"I believe a teacher must understand the learning style of the student and relate instruction about the swing to their unique capabilities.” - Mary Mills

Do you think everyone learns the same?

If not, and you think one of the characteristics of a great coach is to find a way to win by maximizing the potential of the team by maximizing the potential of the individuals, then would you coach everyone the same?

As coaches, we want to and try to be consistent, but if we want to get the most out of athletes, we have to be able to meet them where they are and give them what they need.

This is and looks different for everyone.

In the classroom, we call this differentiation. It’s not about favoritism, but getting the most out of each individual so they can collectively better help the team.

Mary Mills is a former female pro golf champion. She once said, “I believe a teacher must understand the learning style of the student and relate instruction about the swing to their unique capabilities. For example, some people relate to feeling, whereas others are comfortable with technical concepts or theory.”

We all learn differently and are motivated by different things.

Think about that when you are struggling with a teammate. Two reflection questions I like to ask myself are, “What do they want to get out of this?” or “What do they need from me or us right now?”

Question of the Day: How do you learn what you need to know about the people you play with or coach so you can lead them and/or help them grow?