Ten thoughts for coaches—scratch "new"—because I believe these musings hold merit for any coach. What do you think?

NOT EVERY PLAYER WILL BE ENGAGED IN EVERY PRACTICE.

Despite your expertise, there will be moments when some players won't be tuned in. Resist the urge to scold. Instead, adjust your approach—change your tone, switch activities, or shift from talking to a scrimmage to pique their interest and understanding.

Teach them regardless.

IF A PRACTICE ISN'T GOING WELL, PAUSE AND REFOCUS.

If your planned practice isn't panning out, pause! Change your approach, try something different, or switch to another drill. Later, analyze what went wrong and plan for the next session.

Do it. Do it right. Do it right now.

COACHING WILL IMPROVE.

It might not be tomorrow, but over time, it gets easier. Remember your nervous first practice? Look how far your coaching has evolved already. Next year, you'll be surprised at how much you've learned.

YOU DON'T HAVE TO AGREE TO EVERYTHING.

You're not obliged to accept every request. Know your limits and politely decline if it overextends you.

NOT EVERY PLAYER OR PARENT WILL ADORE YOU.

And you won't either. That's alright. Our job isn't to be adored but to teach. Players need a mentor, not a buddy.

YOU CAN'T BE CREATIVE EVERY DAY.

Seek help when ideas run dry. Look to coaching resources and share your innovative strategies with fellow coaches.

YOU CAN'T DO IT ALL, ALL THE TIME.

You can't juggle everything without burning out. Learn to say no when necessary.

YOU WILL MAKE MISTAKES. THAT'S HOW YOU LEARN.

Mistakes are part of life. Learn, apologize if needed, and move on. Laugh with your players and at yourself.

THIS IS THE BEST JOB ON EARTH.

Stand tall, look people in the eye, and proudly proclaim: I am a coach!