The Pendulum of Expectations in Youth Sports
Across these levels, a pendulum swings between development and winning. In a recreational league, the pendulum is firmly on the side of development—winning is nice, but it’s not the focus. At the highest levels, winning becomes the focus, and the athletes are assumed to be fully developed.
It’s critical to understand where you are on this spectrum and adjust your coaching decisions accordingly:
Recreation League: Focus on fun, participation, and basic skill development. Winning is secondary.
School Teams: Balance development and competition. Teach teamwork, discipline, and resilience while pursuing success.
Club Teams: Emphasize advanced skills and competitive strategy. Prepare athletes for high-level play while maintaining their physical and mental health.
Elite Levels: Prioritize performance. Every decision is about winning and maximizing results in high-pressure environments.
Paid to Win vs. Paid to Develop
Another layer to consider is whether the coach is paid to win or paid to develop players. This distinction affects coaching decisions in a big way. A youth coach in a development league may not even have a win-loss record that matters to anyone. Their primary responsibility is to help kids improve and enjoy the sport.
In contrast, a high school or college coach’s job may depend on their win-loss record. If they lose too many games, it could cost them their job. In professional settings, a coach’s livelihood and their family’s future may be tied to their ability to win. The pressure to succeed can be immense. This reality isn’t talked about enough, but it’s an important factor to consider—this pressure is not nothing. Coaches at this level are making decisions not just for their athletes, but also for their careers.
A coach paid to win will naturally make different decisions than a coach expected to develop players. A paid coach may prioritize immediate results over long-term growth. While that may not align with every parent’s expectations, it’s a necessary reality in high-pressure competitive environments. On the other hand, a coach focused on development might take more risks, give different athletes a chance to lead, and focus on fundamentals over flashy plays.
Why It Matters
If you coach without understanding the organization’s philosophy, you risk misaligned expectations, which leads to frustration for everyone involved. For example, if you approach a recreational team with the intensity of a college coach, you’ll burn out your athletes (and yourself). Conversely, treating a competitive club team like a rec team’ll frustrate players who want to push themselves and compete at a high level.
When you align your coaching approach with the organization’s purpose, you create a cohesive, purposeful experience for your athletes. Whether you’re helping 8-year-olds learn the basics of a new sport or preparing an Olympic hopeful for the world stage, understanding your role and the organization’s goals will help you make the right decisions at the right time.
