Why Coaches Struggle to Understand Generation Z Athletes: Insights from Giani Boldeanu, Mental Performance Coach

As a mental performance coach working with both athletes and coaches across generations, I’ve seen the unique challenges that arise as Generation Z athletes take the field. Born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, these young athletes bring distinct values, communication styles, and expectations that often clash with traditional coaching methods. Bridging this gap is essential for success, but it frequently requires one side to adjust—either coaches adapting their approach or athletes broadening their attitudes—to foster development.

1. Different Communication Styles, Different Worlds

Traditional coaching relies on direct instruction, where coaches give commands and athletes follow. However, Gen Z, raised in a digital world of rapid communication and social media, prefers brief, collaborative interactions. Coaches who adapt their communication to be concise and digital-friendly often find it easier to engage these athletes, while those who resist might need athletes to shift their expectations to embrace more traditional coaching communication.

2. Emphasis on Mental Health and Well-Being

Gen Z athletes value mental health and expect their coaches to acknowledge its importance. For coaches unaccustomed to this approach, embracing mental well-being as part of performance can feel foreign but is often essential for gaining athletes’ trust and commitment. For those who resist, I work with athletes to develop self-care strategies and resilience within existing coaching structures.

3. The Need for Purpose and Meaning

Today’s athletes want to know the “why” behind their work and seek purpose in their efforts. Coaches who frame training within a larger narrative often see higher engagement. For athletes whose coaches don’t provide this purpose, I help them find personal motivation and internal meaning within their training.

4. Embracing Technology and Data

Tech-savvy Gen Z athletes often use data and digital tools as part of their training. Coaches who integrate these tools can deepen their athletes' engagement and understanding, while athletes working with less tech-oriented coaches may need to embrace non-digital feedback to maximize their training.

5. Expecting Frequent Feedback and Validation

Gen Z’s need for frequent feedback can challenge milestone-based traditional coaching. Coaches who provide small, regular feedback points see stronger motivation, while athletes whose coaches don’t adapt can benefit from learning to appreciate feedback at key moments.

6. Balancing Team Goals with Individuality

Gen Z athletes value self-expression and individuality, which can feel at odds with team-focused coaching. When coaches encourage individuality within a team context, they build stronger team unity. If not, athletes can express their individuality outside the team, balancing personal goals with team success.

Building a Collaborative Path to Success

In my role, I often facilitate a middle ground, guiding both sides to adapt: coaches embracing Gen Z values and athletes broadening their understanding of traditional coaching values. This collaborative approach transforms not just performance but the entire coach-athlete relationship. It’s more than a strategy for winning; it’s the foundation for the future of sports.

What Do You Think?

This conversation on bridging generational gaps in sports is just beginning, and your experiences are vital. If you’re a coach, how have you adapted (or struggled to adapt) to coaching Gen Z athletes? Athletes, what have been your biggest challenges or successes working with coaches from different generations?

Your insights could help shape the future of coaching, so let’s start a dialogue—share your thoughts, experiences, and questions. Together, we can build a stronger, more adaptable sports community.

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