On top of the game

(Pearce photo)

It is evident from the moment you talk to Dr. Carolyn Savoy that coaching is much more than a profession Ð itÕs a way of life. Her dedication to her athletes and the sport goes far beyond the court. Her approach is simple, her actions genuine. She inspires her players to give their best, leads by example and doesnÕt bring anything but her ÒA” game. This inspires her players to do the same.

With nearly 30 years at the helm of the Dalhousie Tigers womenÕs basketball team, Dr. Savoy is a busy woman. In addition to sporting an impressive 70%-plus winning record over the span of her coaching career, she is a faculty member at Dalhousie, teaching sports psychology in the Faculty of Health Professions and provides mental skills training to high level athletes and teams. Dr. Savoy also applies her training techniques to management teams in the corporate world, focusing on enhancing team dynamics and leadership development.

Her latest project, The Art of Coaching: A Practical Guide to Building Successful Teams, combines her knowledge with the expertise of 16 other head coaches and accounts for over 380 years of experience.  It explores what it takes to have a successful team and provides a road map to get there. More importantly, it provides insight on setting goals, obtaining goals, identifying and developing the potential in others, communication and leadership - key skills for any team in any setting.

ÒTeaching players responsibility and accountability, as well a strong work ethic and the value of practice and repetition is far more important than any technical information I can convey,” writes Dr. Savoy. ÒThese are the life skills that your players will take with them and continue to use over the years.”

There is no magic formula to get the most out of a team, coaching is an art Ð and Dr. Savoy is an artist. She understands the science of the sport and has a flair for knowing how to get the most out of her athletes and the team. Her players are richer for working with her and her program is stronger because of her leadership, expertise and approaches. The skills stay with players long after theyÕve stepped off the court and the respect Dr. Savoy garners only speaks to her talents as a coach, an educator and a mentor.