Tennis Insider Club with Caro Garcia

The Insight: Great Coaching Isn’t About Telling - It’s About Teaching

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Jan 6, 2026
What truly makes a coach great? Legendary coach Darren Cahill reveals that it's about teaching players to think independently, not simply giving answers. He emphasizes the importance of communication, trust, and knowing when it's time for a new voice. Cahill shares insights on developing tactical intelligence and how empathy plays a crucial role in coaching, especially with female athletes. Ultimately, great coaches empower players for independence, illustrating that these lessons extend beyond just tennis.
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INSIGHT

Coaching Is Three-Part And Communicative

  • Great coaching blends technical, tactical, and emotional facets, with communication sitting at the center.
  • No coach is excellent at everything, so clarity about strengths matters more than false promises.
ADVICE

Coach To Create Independence

  • Teach players to problem-solve so they become independent rather than dependent on the coach.
  • Expect a natural three-to-four year window where you can impart most of your knowledge before a new voice is needed.
ADVICE

Offer Options, Not Orders

  • When a player leans on you for directives, shift to explaining options and trade-offs instead of issuing orders.
  • Present choices, test them briefly in match play, and revert if they fail.
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