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Troy Flanagan

The Heart Beats The Chart



In the high-stakes realm of elite professional sports, the well-known adage, “people don’t care what you know until they know you care,” (Theodore Roosevelt) resonates profoundly. This principle is not just a feel-good statement; it's a foundational pillar for fostering high performance among athletes and staff. In a world where the margin for victory is razor-thin, the power of genuine care and empathy can be a difference-maker.


One of the keys to working successfully in high performance sport is to demonstrate and prioritize care for the player instead of knowledge.

At the core of elite sports is the athlete – a unique blend of talent, drive, and, importantly, human emotion. Recognizing this human element is crucial. Coaches and support staff who show that they understand their athletes' aspirations, fears, and challenges, establish a deeper connection. This empathy opens doors to more effective communication, trust, and ultimately, better performance.


Trust is the bedrock of any successful team. When staff and coaches demonstrate care, it signals to athletes that their well-being is a priority, not just their performance. This caring approach builds a foundation of trust, encouraging athletes to buy into new strategies and ideas with confidence. It's a cycle where care leads to trust, which leads to openness to new ideas, culminating in enhanced performance.


Leadership in elite sports is often characterized by an unrelenting quest for excellence. However, when leaders demonstrate care, it sets a powerful example and a ripple effect. It creates an environment where each member feels valued and understood. This atmosphere not only boosts morale but also encourages everyone to adopt a similar approach, fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration.


Engagement is critical in high-performance sports. Athletes and staff who feel cared for are more invested in their roles, more willing to go the extra mile, and more open to embracing change. This heightened engagement is a catalyst for innovation and creativity, essential components in a field where the difference between winning and losing can be a mere fraction.


Adapting to new techniques, technologies, methodologies and change is essential. When leaders show they care, athletes and staff are more receptive to these changes. They understand that any new idea or change is rooted in a desire for their collective success, making the adoption process smoother and more effective.


In conclusion, while knowledge, tactics, and physical prowess are unquestionably vital in elite sports, the importance of showing care cannot be overstated. It’s a powerful tool that turns individual talent into collective excellence. As we navigate the competitive landscape of professional sports, let’s remember: your staff and players might forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.

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