Chapter 1: THEORIES OF LEADERSHIP “The strength of the group is in the strength of the leader.” Vince Lombardi

Introduction After reading this chapter, you should have knowledge about the following: 1. The concept of leadership 2. Canadian leaders in sport and fitness 3. Theories of leadership from past to present 4. Matching leadership behaviours to the group and the situation Good leadership is absolutely essential to any organization

Contents What Is Leadership? Two Contrasting Examples of Successful Leadership Canadian Leaders in Sport and Fitness Studying Leadership Can Leadership Be Learned?

What is Leadership?

Leaders help groups set goals, envision the possibilities and make commitments Leaders can have a positive influence on the lives and behaviours of others Leaders are not necessarily people who do great things but rather people who inspire others to do great things

YMCA Definition of Leadership We measure the effectiveness of a leader not in terms of the leadership he exercises, but in terms of the leadership he evokes; not in terms of power over others, but in terms of the power released in others; not in terms of the goals she sets up and the direction she gives, but in terms of goals and plans of action others work out for themselves with her help; not in terms alone of products and projects completed, but in terms of growth of competence, sense of responsibility, and personal satisfaction among many participants

Leadership versus Management Managers Direct or control operation or performance Are concerned with logistics Leaders Set the overall vision and inspire Influence interpersonal relationships and motivation May show management ability “Leadership is the knack of getting somebody to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” Dwight D. Eisenhower

Leadership versus Supervision Supervisors Oversee or inspect the quality of the work done Pass judgment on the group members’ performance Leaders May function as supervisors BUT also encourage group members to set and achieve their own personal standards

The Person at the Top Sometimes leaders find themselves in their positions because of their assigned status and leadership ability may be lacking. On the other hand, people who earn their status as leaders because of their actions may be a source of either support or irritation to the official leaders

Two Contrasting Examples of Successful Leadership

Success Starts at the Top

Reaching the Peak

Two Contrasting Examples of Successful Leadership Vince Lombardi Both coached teams to outstanding records, but their personal styles were at opposite ends of the spectrum vs. John Wooden

Vince Lombardi Legendary NFL coach “Winning isn’t everything. It’s the only thing.” An extreme example of a task-oriented leader who asked everything of his players Not everyone liked working for him, but almost every professional football player wanted to have him as a coach because he would bring out their best performances

John Wooden Influenced personal development of his players A person who taught on a constant basis based on his “pyramid of success” Although his practices were very demanding, there was always the sense of people having fun playing a simple game

The Pyramid of Success Industriousness Friendship Loyalty Cooperation Enthusiasm Self-control Alertness Initiative Intentness Condition Skill Teamwork Poise Confidence Competitive greatness Ambition & Sincerity Adaptability & Honesty Reliability & Resourcefulness Strength & Integrity Faith & Patience