What makes a good agility instructor?
Today’s topic is: What makes a good instructor or coach? Now, having only ever really had a couple instructors, I don’t have much to compare to – BUT, I do believe my instructors are some of the best, and I’ll outline why below.
- Extremely talented agility competitors. This I think is quite important: if you aren’t actively doing it, I don’t think they can train you properly for it.
- They have been training dogs of all types, sizes, and ages for all sorts of things for years: agility, obedience, herding, flyball – you name it. Well-rounded and experience counts for a lot.
- They are not afraid to criticize. So important! Too often, once you get up there in training, there isn’t a TON you don’t do well, but they are always striving to have us be the BEST. And criticism is vital.
- Courses in class are always INSANELY DIFFICULT. Why this is good is something I figured out when we finally went to our first competition – oh so nervous! And then… I saw the course and was dumbfounded. I didn’t even realize courses could be THIS EASY. Then I realized it – we were training for advanced level in class. So when we got to start competing, it was a breeze.
- Attitude! You gotta have the right attitude. I know I can always look to my instructor for a smile or encouragement, and she knows above all it is all about HAVING FUN. Sure, we want to win, and do well – but if you aren’t having fun… well, look elsewhere.
These are just a few of what I find makes a quality instructor for agility. I’m looking forward to reading all the other posts!
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Agree on everything! Especially on point 2 and 3. 1 I mostly agree, though there are a lot of competitors out there that have had to step back from the ring due to age or injury, but still have a wealth of experience to draw on (I believe Susan Salo doesn’t compete much if at all anymore, though I could be wrong on that, but I’m pretty sure people are still going to take her advice when it comes to jumping).