Where can I get information on coaching?
The great part of being a
coach (and also the most frustrating part) is that you don't solve the problem
yourself! As a coach, you'll motivate, facilitate, question, and probably drive
to the hardware store many, many times, but you'll never contribute a single idea,
sew a stitch, cut a piece of wood, or say "do it this way." A coach's
primary job is to help his or her team to grow. You want to stimulate thinking
and creativity by creating the proper environment, not stifle your team by
trying to influence the direction of their ideas. Sounds difficult? It can be,
but coaching an Odyssey of the Mind team is also one of the most rewarding
experiences you'll ever have. The Tennessee Odyssey of the Mind Association
will be sponsoring Coaches' Training workshops to help you as you enter the
wild, wonderful, and sometimes bewildering world of coaching an Odyssey of the
Mind team. We view attending a Coaches' Training workshop as essential, and
can't recommend it enough for both new and experienced coaches. If you are interested
in Coaches' Training, contact the association director for more information.