Why Relationships Between Players, Coaches, and Parents Are Key

The Power of the Triangle

Every successful athlete is built on what I call "the performance triangle" — the connection between player, coach, and parent.

Each side of that triangle has a different job, but they all depend on each other for balance. When one side weakens, the whole structure becomes shaky. But when all three work together, the athlete grows stronger—on and off the court.

1. The Player's Role: Ownership and Effort

Players are at the center of this triangle.

That means the player must take ownership of their effort, attitude, and improvement.

A coach can guide, a parent can support, but only the player can do the work.

When players take charge of their own goals—asking questions, listening to feedback, keeping a journal of their progress—they grow faster and gain confidence. That's called self-awareness, and it's the foundation of success.

2. The Coach's Role: Guidance and Honesty

Coaches are like GPS systems. We don't drive the car—we guide it.

A great coach gives direction, teaches discipline, and challenges the player to stretch beyond comfort.

Sometimes that means tough love, sometimes it's encouragement—but it's always with one goal: helping the player become their best.

Good communication between coach and player builds trust.

And when parents support that relationship—by reinforcing what the coach teaches—the player stays focused instead of confused.

3. The Parent's Role: Support and Stability

Parents provide the emotional fuel.

Your role isn't to coach during the match or correct every mistake. It's to create a positive environment—one that helps your child feel safe to learn, fail, and grow.

When parents show patience and perspective, kids feel freer to compete, take risks, and stay motivated for the long term.

4. When All Three Work Together

When players, coaches, and parents communicate openly, something special happens:

• The player feels supported, not pressured.
• The coach can coach without interference.
• The parent understands the journey and stays connected in a healthy way.

That's when growth becomes exponential.

The triangle becomes a team—and that team builds champions not just in tennis, but in life.