Yesterday I had the opportunity to be a part of the interviews for the new 4th grade teacher. I took notes of some good answers that will hopefully help me in the future :) It was tough to choose someone...there were a lot of really good candidates. We narrowed it down to two so I'm anxious to hear who our principal chose.
Anyways, while I was chatting it up with my principal, I found out that the volleyball coach position is open. I played in high school and have always thought about coaching. I love the game and am seriously considering the position. I have never coached before so I am nervous about that and.....I wouldn't just coach one team. I would coach the 7th grade, 8th grade, and possibly a 5th/6th team. I would really love to hear from any of you if you have coached before and your thoughts on coaching. Is it hard to balance the time between coaching and teaching? Do the parents drive you crazy? Anything you could tell me about coaching would be helpful!!
I don't coach, but two of my fifth-grade colleagues both coach volleyball. For them it takes up a lot of time with camps and weekend competitions and practices and things like that. If you are interested in coaching maybe I would start out as an assistant coach so you can see you what is all involved. I also know that in Iowa you have to have your coaching endorsement first. I'm not trying to be a Debbie downer but I do know that there is a lot of time involved.
ReplyDeleteI coached those exact grades in volleyball for three years. I loved it! The only reason I stopped was because of baby #2.
ReplyDeleteWill it be hard to juggle coaching and teaching? Yes! But you are established in your grade level and know what to expect from teaching so at least you can plan ahead. Coaching takes up ALL of your after school time. I did a ton of my extra 'teacher stuff' on the bus rides.
Do parents drive you crazy? Yes! Even more so as a coach than a teacher. My mom who coached volleyball on the high school level for 15 years gave me the best advice, "just nod and tell the parents they are probably right and that you will make the best decision possible for the team." It worked every time!
Is it worth it? Yes! I was in the same boat as you...loved volleyball, played in high school and in leagues after. I am so glad I did it and will go back to it when my babies are older.
I say go for it! Just be aware that the time usually spent on classroom "stuff" will drastically go down. Email me if you have any questions!
Tina
Crofts' Classroom
croftsclassroom@gmail.com
I have been coaching volleyball for 6 years! I have been a head varsity coach now for 3. I absolutely LOVE IT! I have coached those ages in JO, and I enjoy them. The only thing i don't love about that age is that I am pretty intense and used to a high, fast-paced level of play, so it was difficult for me to be patient all of the time. I won't lie to you, it is A LOT of time. It can be a struggle to balance school and coaching, but if you set up routines, it works! PLus, you are an organized teacher, so you will be fine. Is it all worth it? DEFINITELY! I thoroughly enjoy coaching, and it's like teaching... so rewarding! I have had the opportunity to work with so many great girls and develop wonderful relationships! It is so great to see them be successful and grow on and off the court. Parents can be a lot to handle, and overbearing, but you should be all right at that age. Plus, you're used to dealing with parent interaction in the classroom, and it can be very similar. If you have ANY questions, need any advice, help with the coaching or volleyball side of it, or just someone to vent to if you have any rough coaching days, email me! :) I'd be glad to help! mrscap6@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteGo for it! You'll love it :)
Amelia
wherethewildthingslearn
I coach basketball with another teacher this year. The team was 6th, 7th and 8th grade. I loved it! I am so glad I had another coach to work with because it took some of the pressure off of me. It was my first year at a new school and in a new grade level. I know, I am crazy! I loved it! I loved getting to know girls who I would never teach and pouring into their lives. I tried to make it a point to get to know them off the court. It did take up a bit of time, but I used the bus ride and the time when the boys were playing to grade papers and work on plans. It was a lot but I would not give that time back for anything.
ReplyDeleteRosie
Rosie's Rambles