5 Influential Coaching Books Every Coach Must Read

  • September 7th, 2017
  • Jaime Bracewell

Putting together a list of excellent books on any subject is always a highly subjective exercise. There are a number of books on or related to coaching out in the world - and a few are even worth reading. Here's my take on the top five.

1. Legacy, by James Kerr:


There are few books that better demonstrate what a team culture should be and how we, as coaches, can cultivate such an environment in our quest for success. Many books on leadership and culture can make for some heavy reading, however Legacy makes for a very easy read. Expect anecdotes from those inside the All Black camp, candid quotes, and undeniable wisdom. "Better people make better All Blacks".

2. The Inner Game of Tennis, by Timothy Gallwey:


Gallwey offers a breakthrough in thinking about human performance that can apply to not only coaching, but human performance more generally. The Inner Game of Tennis teaches us to overcome self-doubt, nervousness and lapses of concentration that create barriers for people to reach their potential.

3. The Winner Within: A Life Plan For Team Players, by Pat Riley:


Pat Riley has one of the best coaching records in the NBA and, as his record suggests, has developed a blueprint for a successful team. Riley illustrates the key to building a cohesive team and learning to maintain high standards so that success is just a matter of time. This is an influential book that has everything you can relate to as a coach. As though he has a crystal ball, Riley covers the problems you will come across as a coach- if you are going to face it, Pat Riley has it covered!

4. Beyond Winning: The Timeless Wisdom of Great Philosopher Coaches, by Gary Walton:


Gary Walton reveals the techniques of six successful sport coaches and the six different approaches and paths taken in a pursuit of excellence. This is a particularly helpful read for young coaches providing a framework for understanding the importance of the intangibles that accompany the processes of winning.

5. Wooden: A Lifetime of Observation and Reflections On and Off the Court, by John Wooden:


Another great book which draws on ample coaching experience. Wooden shares his philosophy on what it takes to be successful and excel in your craft drawing on his knowledge from both basketball and life generally. His profound wisdom is not just limited to coaching but spills into general leadership in all avenues of life. The pages are packed full of motivation and quotes that both you and your players will take with you for the rest of your lives.