The essential job of a coach is to train, develop and positionpeople to succeed by effectively using their talents. When theseason starts, the coach should be able to step back and let theteam perform.

Football teams have been hard at work now for weeks, preparingfor their busy time. Let's think about why that's necessary forsuccess in the season that lies ahead. After all, football playershave had extensive experience in the past. They're well aware ofwhat it takes to compete and win. Aside from getting into shape,why is it so important that they spend weeks on end practicingbefore the season starts?

I think about the attitudes of great coaches. Bill Belichick,generally regarded as the best pro football coach today, is famousfor responding in interviews: “He did his job.” He boils all theemotion and turmoil of performing at your peak during crunch timeinto a summary of what you need to do as part of a successfulorganization. You should know your role, trust your teammates andexecute as planned. Nick Sabin, arguably the best college coach ofhis era, was asked a question last fall that led him to respond“…losing is never acceptable.” In different ways, great coaches getplayers to respond at the highest level when it matters most.