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NYWC Feature | Coaching

David Fraze
October 16th, 2019

My favorite thing to be called is “David.”  

The second is “Dad.” 

The third is “Coach.” 

And (believe it or not), way down on the list is “Doctor.”  

Why? The top three are personal and typically indicate a deeper relationship.  

Let’s focus on “coach.” Yes, you may have had coaches that were jerks.  But for the most part (especially those I have had the pleasure to work with-on the field and in the church), they are awesome individuals who care deeply about those they are coaching. 

I spend a lot of my days on a football field.  For those in the game, the field is a special (we use the word sacred) place where the relationship between player and coach is highlighted.  Don’t get me wrong, it is awesome to hear and feel the energy of the band and fans.  But in the heat of battle, the dance between coach and player is spectacular, messy, intense and special.  

I have spent 31 years on the youth ministry field.  For those in the game, the field is a special (we use the word sacred) place where the relationship between student and adult is highlighted. Don’t get me wrong, it is awesome to hear and feel the energy of the stage and students.  But in the heat of battle, the dance between youth minister and player is spectacular, messy, intense and special.  

Yes, I just made a very deliberate connection between Coach and Youth Minister.  Why?  The similarities are that close.  So, where does a “coach” go to get “coached.”  They can go to clinics and seminars on technique.  However, for most of us, we get the best advice and direction from those we call coach.  Or, we find seasoned (old) coaches who have been through the battles and earned the trust to speak into our ministry. 

With this in mind, let me introduce you to NYWC Coaching

Whether a rookie, veteran, or somewhere in between, you have hopefully come to realize that youth ministry is a team, not individual sport.  There are moments in which we face a cross road of opportunity and/or challenge and would benefit greatly from a conversation with a trusted, wise and confidential youth ministry veteran who has been there, done that and has the t-shirts to prove.    A conversation that helps you explore the various sides of the opportunity/challenge and can help you catch a glimpse of what each road may look like for you, your family and ministry if chosen.   That’s NYWC Coaching.  

Coaching is ideal for those…

  • looking to better utilize your gifts and skills
  • contemplating a ministry change
  • whose ministry is stuck or in need of systemic or structural changes
  • who have been fired 
  • who have been hired and don’t know where to start
  • who are looking for their first job
  • who have a difficult relationship with your senior pastor or volunteer
  • who want to know how to best use volunteers and/or build a ministry team
  • if you need encouragement
  • if you need an honest opinion
  • if you need more balance in your life
  • if need to process a particularly challenging NYWC Big Room or Class session.  

As you can see, there are a several reasons (many not listed) why you should consider scheduling a time with a YS Coach.  Each session is 45 minutes in length, FREE for NYWC Participants and the agenda is set by you.  

Sign up below to secure your time with a YS Coach.  Note: Time slots fill up fast.  So, if you know you want to schedule a time with a Coach, consider signing up before NYWC begins.


CHECK OUT COACHING AT NYWC 2019

David Fraze

David Fraze is an advisor and professor at Lubbock Christian University in Lubbock, TX. David also contributes as an editor at Youth Specialties, a coach at the National Youth Workers Association, and is a sought after speaker and advisor with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the YS Blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of YS.

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