The best view of a leader from Victoria

The best view of a leader?

from Victoria University report 2008… • For principals the role was seen as greater than that of being a simple organiser of sport. • For them the role was that of a leader for sport in the school. • While the potential for this level of role was acknowledged there was also a pragmatic realisation that the level of remuneration and the conditions of employment meant that this often did not occur. Good leaders have sense enough to pick good people to do what they want done, and selfrestraint to keep from meddling with them while they do it.

Think of someone you have known as a leader that you DID NOT have respect for or want to follow. (Don’t tell anyone their name!) Why? What was it about them, their character or what they did that made you feel that way? Think of someone who you have known as a leader that you DID respect and want to follow. (You can name them if you wish!) Why? What was it about them, their character or what they did that made you feel that way? Seems pretty easy then. . . BE THESE THINGS!! Leadership should be born out of the understanding of the needs of those who would be affected by it.

YOU are LEADING a TEAM COMMITMENT: differs from motivation which ebbs and flows, commitment is permanent OWNERSHIP: engage the participants, not just their voices, but their participation RESPONSIBILITY: ensure people understand what they are accountable for EXCELLENCE: it is about personal excellence. . . it is HARD WORK…. . but it is also an OPPORTUNITY for you

Leadership is practiced not so much in words, as in attitude and in actions. Leadership cannot really be taught, it can only be learned.

Important points to ponder… • What are the barriers to you providing effective leadership for sport in your school? • What needs to occur / change for you to address these? • Describe your leadership “style” in one sentence. • What would you describe as your leadership • Strengths? • Weaknesses? • Needs for development? “People are more easily led than driven. ”

The power of the first follower http: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=f. W 8 am. MCVAJQ

• Leader needs the guts to stand alone and look ridiculous • Be easy to follow • The first follower is crucial – now it’s about us , not me • The crowd is news • Be public • Everyone needs to see the followers, they will emulate them, not the leader • Momentum = Tipping Point • No reason for others not to join in – be part of the “in” crowd • Nurture your first few followers – make it about the movement not you • There is no movement without the first follower • They will transfer you from the lone nut into a leader!! Managers are people who do things right, leaders are people who do the right thing.

Leading … an approach to targeting your efforts What are the KEY LEADERSHIP FACTORS that will contribute to the SUCCESSFUL SPORTING ENVIRONMENT in your school? Rank their IMPORTANCE to ACHIEVING SUCCESS (1 = low, 10 = High) Rank them in terms of how well you are CURRENTLY doing with each key factor Place teach Key Factor on the CHANGE GRID Focus on the biggest bang for your buck – but don’t take your eyes off the ball on the others… Lead and inspire people. Don't try to manage and manipulate people. Inventories can be managed but people must be lead.

MUST DO LIST • • Be in touch with student voice Recognise and reward your coaches / managers Have good plans – strategic, annual, term Create some fun Use community strengths – clubs, parents Find a solution, not a problem Model what you expect and respect Take care of your health A competent leader can get efficient service from poor troops, while an incapable leader can demoralize the best of troops.

YOU MUST BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH TO SEE