For UK Coaching Week this year, Mel Tomlinson, RDA Advanced Coach, tells us about how she incorporates diversity & inclusion into her coaching. 

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

It’s paramount to listen to those we coach, hear their expectations and goals and in return be clear on what they can expect from their coach. From this conversation, we can then agree what is achievable (short, medium and long term), avoiding any demotivation or drop out, whilst ensuring we maintain enjoyment, motivation and achievement.

It’s really important to me as a coach to have that talk on Extrinsic and Intrinsic factors to success and help my participant ‘own’ their coaching journey.

It’s important to challenge and stretch participants within their own capabilities.

Goals have to be realistic and achievable to keep participants motivated. I’ve recently signposted one of my riders to British Dressage for dispensation to compete against non-disabled participants which has boosted her confidence and improved her test riding.