A clear and compelling vision can transform a team, a club, or even an entire organisation. Just ask NASA. During the 1960s, their mission to “put a man on the moon” wasn’t just a slogan—it was a unifying purpose that inspired everyone, from astronauts to canteen staff. That’s the power of vision. And in coaching, it’s just as vital.

What Is a Vision?

A vision is a vivid picture of the future you want to create. It’s your ultimate goal—your “moon landing.” It defines what success looks like and gives you a reason to keep going, even when things get tough. In coaching, your vision should be rooted in your values and beliefs. It starts with your “why”—why you coach, why sport matters for children—and ends with your “what”—what you want to achieve.

As Friedrich Nietzsche once said, “Those who have a why to live for can bear almost any how.” A strong vision gives you direction, motivation, and resilience.

Why Vision Matters

A well-crafted vision does more than inspire—it guides action. It helps you:

• Clarify your purpose as a coach.
• Align your strategy with your values and beliefs.
• Motivate others, including children, parents, and fellow coaches.
• Make better decisions, especially in challenging moments.
• It also acts as a compass. When you’re unsure about a decision, you can ask: “Does this move us closer to our vision?” If the answer is no, it’s time to rethink.

What Makes a Good Vision?

A strong vision is:

• Compelling – It paints a picture people can believe in and want to work toward.
• Aligned – It reflects your core values and beliefs. If your club says it values inclusion but only focuses on elite athletes, there’s a disconnect.
• Realistic – Ambitious, yes—but achievable. Like Kennedy’s moonshot, it should be grounded in possibility.
• Time-bound – A 3–5 year timeframe is often ideal for youth sport settings.
• Shared – The more people feel involved in shaping or understanding the vision, the more committed they’ll be.

Bringing It to Life

A vision isn’t just a statement on a wall—it’s a living part of your coaching culture. Communicate it clearly. Revisit it often. Use it to reflect on your progress and guide your decisions. And most importantly, make sure it resonates with everyone involved—from players and parents to assistant coaches and volunteers.

Final Thoughts

Your coaching vision is your north star. It helps you stay focused, energised, and aligned with what truly matters. So take the time to define it. Make it meaningful. And let it guide you—and those around you—toward a future worth striving for.

Watch the full video below