Redskins: Indicators for success under head coach Ron Rivera
By Tim Meek
Why is Ron Rivera different?
Coach Ron Rivera has a very clear message; the foundation of his leadership is centered around family and accountability.
Sounds nice, but how does that translate to winning, you may wonder?
The NFL is the foremost example of a team sport. No other professional sport involves so many moving parts that are essential to success.
It’s starts with a vision, which lays the groundwork to the foundation. The foundation of an NFL team is the front office, coaches, and players. Being an NFL coach is an overwhelming experience, and his most important task is getting the right people in place to lessen the burden.
The hiring of Jack Del Rio was the first positive glimpse into the kind of culture coach Rivera is creating. Often times, coaches are reluctant to bring in strong personality types with a long resume of success. Why? It’s subjective, but my opinion is they have tremendous egos. They want control, especially on the side of the ball they are most familiar with.
Next, he brought in a staff of coaches that he has direct working relationships with. This helps build the chemistry they need as a staff.
The players will see a staff that works cohesively, as a unit. That’s important; in this sport, everyone has to be on the same page. It’s expected of the players and it begins with the coaches. It’s all part of the foundation.
Leadership starts at the top, but the message is delivered by the coaches and executed by the players. Building trust in the coaches matters, and can be established with a culture that emphasizes an atmosphere of family. Most people will do anything for their family, right?