Coaching is much more than just a profession, it is a calling.  A good coach has to love being a teacher.  A good teacher knows that we never stop learning in life, so he must be willing to continue to improve as a coach.  A good teacher will motivate his students to want to learn and improve.  One of the most important lessons that can be taught is that winning means nothing if it comes as a result of cheating.  Cheating includes any dishonest or unprincipled shortcuts that are taken to give an athlete an advantage.   Another important lesson, which is related to the first lesson, is that success comes from hard work.  Success is not something that comes instantly, but it will come in time with perseverance.  If a student works hard at practice, studies the sport, and lives a healthy lifestyle, they will achieve TRUE success.  A good teacher will teach this by example. The students must be taught to never enjoy a win so much that they slack off or a take a loss so seriously that it discourages them.  A good teacher will always be available to his students needs. The students must feel that they can approach the coach with their problems and concerns.  If a coach loves teaching, they will truly care about their students and support their needs.  Rules and guidelines for the team must be clearly outlined and clearly communicated to the players, their parents, and the school’s administration.  Everyone involved must know what the ramifications are for breaking the rules.  A good teacher is confident and addresses issues with a consistent and fair hand.  The students’ must understand that the team is like a family.  They must respect each other, and treat each other in a positive way that shows loyalty to their teammates and to the values of the team.