It is often said that change is a good thing; does this apply to coaching changes in sports?

This spring two new coaches joined the CHS Track and Field staff. Both coaches have been added to the throwing staff and both are excited for the rest of the season.

In the upcoming 2015 fall sports season, at least two teams have to fill the position of head coach before the pre-season begins. Both the girl’s soccer team and field hockey team have to take on the daunting task of replacing a head coach. The field hockey team is in a unique situation because they have to replace an entire coaching staff.

Cat North of Livestrong said, “Coaches who maintain a positive attitude and environment can better motivate and encourage athletes.”

A positive environment starts with the coaching staff. If the coaches establish a tough environment at the beginning of the season, it is likely that this atmosphere will be maintained throughout the season.

If a coach has coached for many season they are likely to have a reputation, but they also will be familiar with older players. Their familiarity with the older players will bring a sense of establishment for the following season. The older players will know what to expect and then the coach doesn’t have to waste time at the beginning of the season establishing who they are and their routine.

Replacing a coach can lead to confusion and a sense of nostalgia. The players will compare the new coach to the old coach and this could lead to disappointment or not seeing eye to eye.

There is often a sense of trust between a coach and his/her players. The coach sees their players every day and will often push their players to their limits. This leads to coaches seeing their athletes at both their best and worst.

Dave Berri, a sports writer for Freakonomics, wrote an article discussing coaching changes at the college football level and said, “The focus these past few weeks has been strictly on preparing for the next season. And part of that preparation appears to be changing the head coach.”

As Berri said, changing the coach could be a try at preparing for the next season. However, with a new coach comes new techniques and new strategies. This could ultimately help the team but could take a while to adjust.

Liberty Mutual’s Play Positive campaign said, “Coaches often have more impact on a child than any other adult other than the child’s parents.”

Teams practice every day and have games weekly. The coach sees the players at their best and at their worst.

Changing the coaching staff on a team can ultimately benefit the team but could be confusing or stressful at first.

What do you think? Can changing the coaching staff benefit the team? Have you had a coach that has ultimately changed your life?

Disclaimer: Articles designated as “Editorial” represent the views and opinions of the author, not the 2014-2015 Periscope staff, CHS Administration, or the CHS student body.