Former NFL defensive lineman and author Joe Ehrmann describes the difference between the transactional and transformational coach in his latest book, InsideOut Coaching -How Sports Can Transform Lives. He describes the
transactional coach as one who uses players as tools to meet their personal needs for validation, status, and identity. They hold power over the athlete in order to get the response they want. They are coach first, team second, player growth and needs last.

Transformational coaches are other-centered. They use their power and platform to nurture and transform players. They are player first, team second, and the coach's needs are met by meeting the needs of the players.

Coach-power, like all forms of power, can be used either for good or for bad, for self or for others.

In 1 Samuel 10:6, Samuel understood the enormous power Saul would have as the newly appointed king of Israel. At a place called Gibeah, ("the hill of God"), the power of the Holy Spirit came upon Saul and changed him into a different person.

At that moment, Saul knew his authority to lead came from God. As coaches, our authority to lead also comes from God. What kind of coach are you? Are you coaching to fulfill your own needs or are you using your platform to reach and transform the athletes you serve?

Heavenly Father, help me to comprehend the enormous power You have given me as a coach. Give me the courage to use this power for good. Transform me day by day Lord into the coach You would have me to be. Amen.