Leadership Principles and Coaching

by Ryan Carey

Many people believe that leadership in the military boils down to a simple equation; rank equals authority. A robotic institution where orders are barked from the top and things get done or else. However, behind the military’s disciplined combat ready forces is a philosophy that is ever learning and adapting to what defines military leadership and how it is taught. Coaches have, over the years, made changes that often parallel those of the military. They have had to change their style of leadership/coaching in order to adapt to changing public attitudes and new generations of young athletes.

The following are some leadership principles that are taught as an introduction to the responsibilities of leadership in the US and the Canadian Forces. I have chosen the ones that I thought would be most applicable, combined some and have for the most part take out the hefty military jargon. As a coach they can be an invaluable tool to shed light on some of the principles that great military leaders use to lead and motivate soldiers under their command. They are in no particular order:

Achieve professional competence and pursue self – improvement

Great leaders are transparent; leadership is something that can’t be faked. A leader assesses current strengths and areas for improvement and sets out specific plans of action for personal development. They are curious, have goals and know their profession by taking courses and studying. Great leaders listen to experienced people and they ask a lot of questions because successful people leave a trace.

Clarify objective, intent and communicate

Great leaders know where they are going and how they want to get there. They also know that they can’t be around to make every decision. A clear intent allows people to operate with maximum freedom of action and independently if necessary. In some situations, people have to make decisions without a leaders on the spot input. Great leaders clearly communicate their intent so that followers have the flexibility to respond to the changing situation. They constantly strive to be better writers and master the gesture; meaning they can covey messages in concentrated terms. Say what you mean and mean what you say; save the art of the bluff for card games.

Solve problems, make sound and timely decisions

Great leaders keep an open mind and consider all course open when making decisions. When time permits, they gather information and involve others who have relevant experience or have a stake in the decision. When it comes time to make decisions under stress, they have gathered enough information to do so. In short, an environment that encourages constructive dialogue sets the conditions for success. Thinking replaces impulsiveness.

Train individuals and teams under demanding and realistic conditions.

Demanding and realistic training allows you to see how people recover from setbacks and deal with the unexpected. Great leaders also know when their team is reaching the burn out stage and understand the importance of planned recovery. There is a saying that has been drilled into my head since joining the military and it holds true, “Nobody rises to the occasion; under stress you sink to your level of training.”

Build teamwork and cohesion

Elitist clicks that form on teams are a direct result of poor leadership from the top. Obviously there are healthy clicks (O-line vs D-Line, DB’s vs Receivers etc.), however elitist clicks do nothing but destroy team chemistry and thus the ability to win. This can occur when coaching styles conflict with player personalities. Nevertheless, the opposite also holds true; understanding player personalities and motivation can build the tightest knit teams.

Mentor, educate and develop a sense of responsibility amongst subordinates/followers

Great leaders train and develop subordinates/followers in order to distribute leadership capabilities. Developing by mentoring and teaching encourages flexible thought. This allows people to make timely decisions without having to consult their superior and then wait for an answer (i.e. Quarterback that takes control of a game by making informed decisions vs. Quarterback that just does what he is told).

Teams are based on effective relations with people. Leaders control and are responsible for applying techniques and procedures to build these healthy effective relations. Any leader worth their salt will tell you that leadership can come from anywhere, even from those whom you would lease expect. However, subordinates in the army or coaches and players on a football team will take their cue from their leader. This is especially true during a leadership moment; a turning point in an unfolding scenario where regardless of prior planning the entire success of the mission/game depends on the leadership of one person. Great leaders yearn for that moment.

Ryan Carey played football at Acadia then drafted and played 6 years in the CFL with Winnipeg and Saskatchewan.  After retiring from CFL, coached at Acadia University and minor football in Ottawa before joining the military.  Served in combat operations in Afghanistan as an Infantry Officer.  Presently a Captain and working at Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) in St Jean, QC as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for Leadership.