Coaching Generation Z Sports Teams: Insights from Giani Boldeanu, Mental Performance Coach
Coaching Generation Z athletes presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This generation, born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, has grown up in a world vastly different from that of their coaches. They’re tech-savvy, highly aware of mental health, and motivated by purpose and personal values, often questioning the traditional approaches that coaches have relied on for decades.
As a mental performance coach who works closely with both athletes and coaches, I’ve seen that success with Generation Z teams comes down to a few key adjustments. When coaches adapt their methods to align with Gen Z values and communication styles, they create a strong foundation for performance, team unity, and mutual respect. Here are the main strategies I recommend for coaching sports teams from Generation Z.
1. Foster a Collaborative Communication Style
Generation Z athletes respond best to a collaborative approach, valuing open dialogue over direct commands. They’re used to two-way conversations and tend to be more motivated when they feel heard and involved in the decision-making process. In practice, this means asking for input, inviting feedback, and creating an environment where athletes feel comfortable sharing their perspectives.
To achieve this, I encourage coaches to hold regular team meetings that are more than just strategy sessions. Creating a space for open dialogue—where athletes can discuss their concerns, and goals, or even provide input on training methods—fosters trust. This doesn’t mean compromising discipline or authority, but rather showing athletes that their voices matter.
2. Prioritize Mental Health and Well-Being
Generation Z is known for being vocal about mental health, and they expect their coaches to acknowledge its importance. They view mental resilience and wellness as essential parts of performance, not as distractions. For coaches, this means being prepared to recognize the mental health needs of their athletes and incorporating support mechanisms into their coaching methods.
Supporting mental health doesn’t require deep psychological training but rather creating an environment where athletes feel their well-being is valued. This could mean checking in with players individually, offering rest or “mental health days” during intense training periods, or simply being available to listen. For more serious concerns, referring athletes to a sports psychologist or counsellor can make a huge difference in their performance and engagement.
3. Provide Purpose and Context Behind Training
Gen Z athletes are motivated by purpose; they want to know the “why” behind their training. They’re less likely to engage fully if drills feel arbitrary, and they’re more motivated when they see how each activity ties into personal growth or team goals. As a coach, explaining the purpose behind each drill or routine can significantly improve engagement and effort.
For instance, instead of saying, “Run this drill,” a coach could explain, “We’re running this drill to improve our reaction time and focus, which will give us an edge in game situations.” Tying each activity to broader goals helps athletes see the value in their work and encourages them to give their best.
4. Leverage Technology and Embrace Data-Driven Training
Generation Z is inherently comfortable with technology and often uses it to track their progress and performance. Coaches can leverage this familiarity by incorporating tech tools like performance-tracking apps, video analysis, or wearable devices. Not only does this approach resonate with Gen Z’s natural inclination for data, but it also provides valuable insights for both athletes and coaches.
For example, video analysis can help athletes visualize their techniques and identify areas for improvement. Similarly, performance data from wearable devices can give both athletes and coaches a clear picture of endurance, strength, and recovery metrics. Incorporating these tools not only helps athletes feel more connected to their training but also encourages them to take ownership of their development.
5. Give Regular, Constructive Feedback
Generation Z athletes have grown up with instant feedback from social media, and they expect a similar level of engagement in their training. They thrive on regular, constructive feedback that helps them course-correct quickly rather than waiting for a major performance review. This doesn’t mean coaches need to comment on every move, but providing consistent, specific feedback during practices and games can make a huge difference in motivation and improvement.
I encourage coaches to set up feedback checkpoints throughout the season, offering both positive reinforcement and specific areas for improvement. By establishing a routine for feedback, coaches can help athletes feel recognized and motivated to push their limits.
6. Encourage Individual Expression within Team Culture
While Generation Z athletes are team-oriented, they also value individual identity and self-expression. Coaches can create a balance by encouraging athletes to bring their unique perspectives and skills while still emphasizing team goals. This might mean allowing athletes to set personal goals alongside team objectives, supporting their social media presence (within reason), or celebrating their accomplishments in addition to team achievements.
Encouraging individuality within a team setting can strengthen team cohesion and build a culture of respect. When athletes feel that their unique strengths are valued, they’re more likely to contribute positively to the team dynamic and take pride in both individual and group successes.
7. Frame Challenges as Opportunities for Growth
Finally, Gen Z athletes respond well to a growth mindset approach. They’re accustomed to the idea of continual improvement and often thrive when challenges are framed as opportunities to grow rather than as criticisms. Coaches who emphasize learning from mistakes and viewing setbacks as part of the journey will find that Gen Z athletes are resilient, dedicated, and willing to push through adversity.
Instead of focusing on what went wrong in a game, coaches can highlight what the team learned and how they can apply that knowledge going forward. This approach fosters a resilient mindset and empowers athletes to view challenges as an integral part of their athletic development.
Final Thoughts: Adapting Coaching to a New Generation
Coaching Generation Z athletes requires flexibility, empathy, and a willingness to evolve traditional methods. By fostering open communication, supporting mental health, providing purpose, embracing technology, giving regular feedback, valuing individuality, and promoting a growth mindset, coaches can unlock the potential of these young athletes and build a strong, cohesive team.
Coaches and Athletes, What’s Your Take?
If you’re coaching a Gen Z team, what strategies have worked for you in connecting with your athletes? Athletes, what do you feel makes a coach effective or inspiring? Share your experiences and insights—your feedback can help shape the future of sports coaching for the next generation. Let’s build a sports community that supports and elevates the best in each other.
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