As someone who grew up playing soccer, I have heard this phrase a million times. It was mainly from fellow teammates or parents who did not care for something the coach did or said. “He wasn’t the best player in college and could not cut it on the professional field so he naturally became a coach. You don’t have to be the best in order to coach.” This was the normal chatter that I heard.

Whether you agree with this phrase or not, I think the better phrase should be, “Those who can play should coach!” If you have talent there is nothing more important than sharing that with others. And there is nothing more rewarding in life then to see someone’s expression when they finally get it and have the “Ah hah, I understand now” moment. Coaching (or teaching) also helps the coach to learn more and instills the lesson deeper in the coach.

It is very important to take this lesson off the field and into your career. Having a super star is great, until he/she leaves the company. But, having someone who can coach...

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