Becoming a coxwain
It wasn’t until the 1980s, at the age of 16 that I unassumingly stepped into my first leadership role and learned effective coaching as the coxswain for my high school’s inaugural rowing team.
The question of “What is a coxswain?” might linger in your mind. Initially, the answer seems straightforward: they’re the ones nestled in the bow of the rowing shell, much like a conductor guiding an orchestra. Just as a conductor sets the tempo and cues for musicians, a coxswain orchestrates the rowers in the boat, ensuring synchronization and efficiency. Affectionately known as a “cox” or “coxie,” this pivotal role demands a blend of technical prowess and exceptional soft skills akin to those of a coach or leader.
Technically, a coxswain must master the art of steering the shell with finesse, navigating waters, and implementing race strategies for optimal performance. They stand as vigilant guardians, ensuring rowers focus on their strokes without distraction. Additionally, they serve as the conduit between the head coach’s strategy and the team’s execution, fostering unity. In the throes of a race, the coxswain becomes the cheerleader, motivator, and inspirational force driving the team forward.
“Just as a conductor sets the tempo and cues for musicians, a coxswain orchestrates the rowers in the boat, ensuring synchronization and efficiency. Affectionately known as a “cox” or “coxie,” this pivotal role demands a blend of technical prowess and exceptional soft skills akin to those of a coach or leader.”
Effective coaching
I didn’t land the role due to overt displays of leadership qualities or the technical finesse required to steer a boat. Rather, my small stature—promising little added weight to the boat—. I vividly recall my early days on the lake, grappling to manage a shell with eight male rowers. While the technical aspects came naturally, my struggle lay in projecting my voice as a leader, both in volume and authority.
The rowers, eager to claim the coveted stroke position, added tension to our novice team, particularly when out on the waters beyond our head coach’s earshot. Mr. Twohig, our commanding coach observing from a nearby motorboat, recognized my struggle to assert leadership. As a former varsity rower, he knew I needed more than his guidance—I needed a coach of my own.
Enter Ms. Lavelle, a former Olympic coxswain. She became a constant presence, observing my interactions with the team on land and water. Sensing my hesitation and lack of direction, she recognized the void hindering our progress. While I could technically guide the shell, I needed to embrace my role fully as coxswain—to earn the team’s trust as a motivator, strategist, and driver, especially during races.
A mentor’s effective coaching approach
In my solo sessions with Ms. Lavelle, she led with curiosity, posing questions about team dynamics, areas for improvement for me and the team, potential strategies for success—familiar refrains of effective coaching. With her unwavering support, I learned when to facilitate and guide, and when to assert command and make critical decisions. Through her coaching, I found confidence in my role.
Having a coach dedicated solely to my development, one who understood the nuances of my position, made all the difference. Ms. Lavelle provided a safe space for me to share struggles, vulnerabilities, and aspirations. She helped me define my goals and set actionable steps toward achieving them. Thanks to her guidance, I found my voice—literally and metaphorically—in the coxswain’s seat.
In conclusion
Reflecting on those formative days, I now realize the profound impact of coaching on leadership development. Just as Ms. Lavelle guided me to find my voice, leaders in any arena can benefit from dedicated coaching support. Leadership is not just about technical skills; it’s about nurturing confidence, clarity, and the ability to lead with purpose.
So, to all the coaches out there—thank you. You’re not just shaping leaders; you’re helping them find their voices, one stroke at a time.
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