
Coaches go beyond competitive matches, playing a key role on the development of the players or teams they coach. A coach has to deeply connect and understand players, keeping an eye on their issues and assisting with solutions, as well as monitor their health and symptoms, referring the players to health professionals when needed.

During my 4-year career, I've not only helped players improve their gameplay and achieve their competitive goals but also influenced their lives and gaming culture. I've guided them in approaching esports and competitions in a better way, while also assisting them in dealing with issues that surge from the stress and roadblocks they face on their journey. A coach should mainly cover the following areas:

## Skill and Game Knowledge

Fostering an improvement culture requires a deep comprehension of the game, its intricacies and various aspects. In many situations, you will show them something they didn’t consider, and you will find a better solution by collaborating together. It's important for a player to be able to discuss these points with an experienced person, you being a reference to discuss game mechanics, gameplay aspects, shot calling, objectives, etc. 

## Evolving Meta and Strategies

Coaches play a crucial role in guiding the team's direction and deciding what strategies to adopt. One of the most valuable skills is adapting your players' style to current OP strategies by keeping up with the latest game patches, changes, and high-level strategies that make a big difference in gameplay. 

## Competitive Mindset and Personal Development

Guiding players along a positive path where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, failures are viewed as valuable experiences, and frustration is managed effectively can deeply shape their approach to the game. Especially in games like League of Legends (the game I coach), where toxic environments tend to affect many players. Encouraging good sportsmanship and healthy competition should be the coach's top priority. While everyone desires victory, it's equally important to learn how to handle losses since wins aren't guaranteed every time.

Additionally, players might experience personal issues that affect their performance. Teaching them how to separate their personal lives from their performance and competition is important for maintaining consistent performance at their best.

In my personal experience, mindset has proven to be the most significant and direct improvement in players, setting a path for success. Many highly skilled players are stuck on lower divisions solely due to their lack of solid habits and incorrect approach towards the game. Keep an eye out for your students, making sure they compete in the right way! 

## Health Management and Support

Monitoring health and symptoms; taking care of health is often overlooked in the gaming industry, yet one of the most important aspects. Spending long hours seated with minimal movement can lead to health issues in both short and long term. Factors like sitting posture, nutrition, quality of sleep, and eye fatigue are essential for maintaining a player's well-being.  A coach must promote healthy habits among their students, to prevent and provide assistance when needed. No player should endure pain or discomfort during their career in any way that’s why coaches must take responsibility and refer players to health professionals if they experience issues like back pain, insomnia, anxiety, among many others. Remember, prioritizing health ensures that players can always perform at their best and don’t face any negative consequences.

Want to connect with Coutu? Find him on [Discord](https://discord.gg/v5muDnEswW) and [Coachify](https://coachify.gg/@coutu)!


The Impact of Coaches on Player Development

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