Coach’s Corner is a weekly column where local coaches share practical advice, personal insights, and valuable lessons from the world of youth and high school sports. Whether you’re a coach looking to lead better, a parent supporting from the sidelines, or a player working to grow on and off the field, Coach’s Corner offers guidance, encouragement, and real-world experience to help you navigate the game—and life—with purpose.
Jacquelyn Cummings – Field Hockey Coach at Fallston High School
Advice to Other Coaches
Don’t take yourself too seriously, your players need to know you are human and that it’s okay to fail and mess up. If you don’t show them the real you, they will not be comfortable being themselves. Be your authentic self, it will change the way your athletes see you!
Advice to Parents
Parent relationships affect the culture of the team just as much as the players and coaches. The support from parents matters to both the coaches and the players, just showing up to games is a huge way to show support. Kids notice when they are at an away game and they have support in the stands, it makes a true difference on their outlook and effort!
Advice to Players
Coaches care more than you will ever truly know, don’t be afraid to have a tough conversation with your coach! It will truly help both you and the coach gain insight on how to better approach a situation or help you grow in the sport. EFFORT matters, on and off the field, being a good teammate is a great sign of character! Not everyone is going to be the best athlete, but your attitude and effort are completely within your control.
Coaching Takeaway
Coaching is one of my favorite things to do, I guess that’s why I love what I do so much! Coaching is a lot like teaching; you have the ability to help someone grow and learn a game and give them the sense of accomplishment that comes from hard work and dedication. Players need to want to be there and want to be a part of the program, if you don’t have that your team culture will turn toxic quickly. I approach every day on the sidelines as a blessing, because not everyone has the opportunity to do something that can leave lasting memories. Stay humble and appreciate the moments because they go fast!