High school students view their coaches and teachers as more than just the person running their practices or teaching their classes these days, and this is a responsibility that shouldn't be taken lightly. These students are embarking on some of the most impactful and formative years of their life, and they look to teachers and coaches for leadership, guidance, and advice. The school organization, booster club, and parent teacher association also put their trust in us as educators, so it is up to us to do all we can to help these kids continue to learn and grow.

One great way to teach leadership to our students is through role reversal. Guiding the kids out of their comfort zone and into a role of decision-making, responsibility, and leadership not only prepares them for future leadership opportunities in their lives, but also shows them that you respect them and value their opinion. These role reversal exercises may reveal a whole new side of your students, and generate more ways in which you can help them continue to grow.

Putting the role reversal plan into action is relatively simple. For coaches, choose an athlete to pick and run a certain drill in practice or pick an area in need of improvement and ask the athlete what their opinion is. Give them complete control of the floor and encourage them to work through their thought processes, so you can give constructive feedback. Similarly for teachers, have a student lead a class discussion or answer questions that other students have. No matter what method you choose, it’s important to give them the feeling of autonomy and encouragement so that they feel equipped to lead the group and give the right answers.

As teachers and coaches, we essentially become a bonus parent for the kids while they're at school. One of the best things we can do for our students is bolster their confidence and help prepare them for their future. By showing them that we believe in them and helping them experience the type of respect that comes from successful leadership, they will learn to believe in themselves and start setting great goals for their lives. Through dedication, hard work, and mutual respect, we can help set these kids on the path to success!