Learn more about the coaches and philosophy of Elmhurst Rugby
A player-centered approach that aims to develop the athlete in both competition and life
Coaching Pillars
We value recruiting and developing the highest quality coaches to train our young athletes. Our coaches are selected based on the following four pillars we deem quintessential for every successful coach. The first two pillars of Toughness and Warmth reference the interpersonal style adopted by coaches with their young athletes. The second two pillars of Competence and Humility reference the personal qualities of the coach.
Toughness
Discipline, mental toughness, resilience, respect, and a desire for self-improvemnet are traits born from coaches that establish expectations and model such traits. We encourage our athletes to become a better version of themselves both in rugby and life - to excel beyond their perceived limits and accept momentary losses not with despair but as a challenge to work harder.
Warmth
You cannot simply push an athlete to perform better. You must lead them down the path to success, which requires an understanding of their motivations and personal goals. Toughness absent warmth is an equation for failure and burnout. The athletes of good youth coaches recognize the priority is individual improvement over victory itself - that winning is a byproduct of maximal effort and accomplished potential.
Competence
An intimate knowledge of the game, how it is played, and how it should be coached at various age levels are all strengths of Elmhurst Rugby. More importantly, our coaching staff are experienced educators in various capacities that understand the full specturm of developmental needs of youth in this age group. We also excel in our knowledge of instruction, ability to assess development to maximize motivation and potential, as well as a desire to coach the individual and not just the athlete.
Humility
We take great pride in securing the best coaches. Perhaps the greatest quality of each Elmhurst coach, however, is their recognition that there is still more to learn and an innate desire to collaborate and improve themselves. This quality not only enhances the caliber of coaching we provide, but models a trait for our young athletes that is possessed by few professional athletes and adults with professional jobs outside of sports.