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In the world of sports, coaching plays a pivotal role in shaping not just athletes, but their entire teams. At Blanchard, two dedicated coaches, Jeff Word and David Sikes, share their experiences and insights that highlight the essence of effective coaching.
With eight seasons under his belt at Blanchard,Jeff Wordbrings a wealth of experience to the table. His counterpart,David Sikes, is in his third year at the school but has accumulated 18 years of coaching experience Together, they represent a blend of wisdom and fresh perspectives in the coaching realm.
The journey of coaching
Coaching is a journey that requires commitment, resilience, and a passion for developing young talent. For Word, the road has been marked by notable achievements. He has successfully guided three teams to the state tournament in recent years, a testament to his dedication and skill. Meanwhile, Sikes has contributed as an assistant coach for two state tournament teams, one reaching the finals and the other the semifinals, showcasing his ability to support and enhance team dynamics.
Influences and motivations
Every coach has their heroes, and Word is no exception. He draws inspiration from the legendaryMike Krzyzewski, who famously said, ‘It’s not just about the X’s and O’s, but about understanding team dynamics and fostering player relationships.’ This philosophy resonates deeply with Word, as he prioritizes connection with his players over mere tactical execution.
Sikes, on the other hand, embraces a wider spectrum of influences. He admires several coaching legends, includingRoy WilliamsandJay Wright. While he doesn’t cling to a single quote, he often emphasizes the mantra ‘Trust the process,’ which encapsulates his approach to coaching and player development.
Lessons learned through coaching
Over the years, coaching has imparted invaluable lessons on accountability and perseverance to Word. He emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of one’s responsibilities and focusing on what can be controlled. Through his experiences, he acknowledges the significance of relationships in coaching, asserting that success is rarely achieved in isolation.
For Sikes, his coaching journey has been shaped by a greater understanding of patience and faith. Early in his career, he felt the urge to control every aspect, both on and off the court. However, he has learned to trust that a higher power is at work, leading him to a more serene and fulfilling coaching experience. This perspective has allowed him to embrace challenges with grace and optimism.
Advice for aspiring coaches
For those contemplating a career in coaching, Word emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with players. He believes that fostering trust and belief in a coach’s vision can yield greater results than any tactical game plan. Sikes echoes this sentiment, highlighting that coaching transcends winning games. He encourages new coaches to focus on doing their jobs with integrity and to prioritize family, reminding them that the game will not always be there, but family will always matter.
The pride of coaching at Blanchard
Representing Blanchard is a source of pride for both coaches. Word appreciates being part of a school with a rich athletic history, feeling a profound responsibility to uphold the legacy of success in their basketball program. He understands that every win and loss contributes to the school’s narrative.
Sikes shares this pride, valuing the strong community surrounding Blanchard. His commitment extends beyond the court, as he strives to instill values and skills in his players that reflect positively on the town. For him, creating a team that embodies not only athletic prowess but also exemplary behavior is crucial.
With eight seasons under his belt at Blanchard,Jeff Wordbrings a wealth of experience to the table. His counterpart,David Sikes, is in his third year at the school but has accumulated 18 years of coaching experience Together, they represent a blend of wisdom and fresh perspectives in the coaching realm.0