Spreading the Understanding of “Coaching Without Getting Angry” in Children’s Sports

A sports tournament that began nine years ago with the rule that “coaches must not get angry” is now being held all over the country, including Fukuoka. The tournament aims to promote a positive and supportive environment for children to develop their skills and love for sports.

Breaking the Cycle of Anger in Coaching

Naomi Mashiko, a former member of the Japanese national volleyball team, started the “Tournament Where Coaches Cannot Get Angry” to put an end to coaching that relies on physical punishment and verbal abuse. Mashiko’s goal is to create an environment for children that is more fun and fosters a desire to improve.

“I myself had always been coached in a way that got me scolded, and I ended up hating volleyball. I want to create an environment for children that is more fun and fosters a desire to improve.”

The Impact of Positive Coaching

At the tournament, coaches are given masks with a cross on them as a warning if they get angry. The focus is on providing constructive feedback and encouragement to the children. Mashiko believes that this approach not only helps children develop their skills but also builds their confidence and self-esteem.

“It’s a sport. Because there are wins and losses, there is growth. Coaches, please try to find ways to achieve victory and development without using anger.”

Changing the Mindset of Coaches

Coaches who participate in the tournament are aware of the importance of positive coaching. They understand that their behavior and attitude can have a significant impact on the children’s experience and development.

“I can’t deny that. We are also a generation that has been scolded, so I think it’s certainly difficult to avoid getting angry at all. I think it would be good if we could praise and encourage people so that they don’t get angry.”

The Future of Children’s Sports

The “Tournament Where Coaches Cannot Get Angry” is a step in the right direction towards creating a more positive and supportive environment for children’s sports. By promoting positive coaching and providing constructive feedback, we can help children develop a love for sports and a lifelong passion for physical activity.

The understanding of “non-angry instruction” is gradually spreading, and Mashiko is optimistic about the future of children’s sports.