Be a Life Long Learner

Just as students are required to read certain classics, here are 10 coaches books that you must check out from your library - or buy from your local bookstore.

They're filled with dozens of practical ideas that you can use to get the most out of your team. Further, they contain years of wisdom that these legendary coaches have learned. Treat yourself to these Coaches Classics and make sure you have a highlighter with you.

1. Wooden - John Wooden and Steve Jamison

Coach Wooden shares hundreds of coaching pointers and gems in this great little book. Discover ways to build better athletes and people.

2. Why We Win - by Billy Packer and Roland Lazenby

CBS sportscaster interviewed such coaching legends as Joe Paterno, Dean Smith, Sparky Anderson, Pat Summitt, Bill Walsh, Tommy Lasorda, and many others. Get these coaches ideas on winning, motivation, and team building.

3. The Man Watching (Anson Dorrance) - by Tim Crothers

Former Sports Illustrated writer Tim Crothers spent four years imbedded in Anson Dorrance's women's soccer program. You'll get rare glimpses into the Dynasty Dorrance has built as well as into the enigmatic man himself.

4. Leading with the Heart - by Mike Krzyzewski and Donald Phillips

Coach K takes you inside Duke basketball and the strategies he has used to build basketball's premiere program. A great follow up to this book is also Coach K's Five-point Play.

5. Sacred Hoops - by Phil Jackson

Nine-time NBA Champion Phil Jackson shares his unique coaching style in Sacred Hoops. The book reveals how Jackson was able to get superstars Jordan, Pippen, and Rodman to work together as a team.

6. Reach for the Summitt - by Pat Summitt and Sally Jenkins

Coach Summitt details her Definite Dozen philosophy that has helped her win six national championships at Tennessee. You'll discover that not only is Coach Summitt tough, but she also has a tender side too.

7. The Score Takes Care of Itself - by Bill Walsh

Coach Walsh shares the leadership secrets that helped transform the San Francisco 49ers from a 2-14 team to three-time Super Bowl Champs. The book is especially good for coaches who are looking to build a strong and successful culture.

8. Joe Torre's Ground Rules for Winners - by Joe Torre and Henry Dreher

Former New York Yankees manager Joe Torre focuses on the people skills necessary to coach a wide variety of individuals. Torre's chapters on communicating with athletes are fantastic.

9. The Bowden Way - by Bobby Bowden and Steve Bowden

Bobby Bowden shares a wealth of lessons and stories that he has experienced over the years as one of college football's most successful coaches. Glean the wisdom that Coach Bowden has gained, sometimes the hard way as he admits.

10. The 12 Leadership Principles of Dean Smith - by David Chadwick

A former player for Dean Smith, David Chadwick shows you why Coach Smith is college basketball's winningest coach and so revered by everyone associated with the Carolina program. In my opinion, this book is better than Smith's own memoir, A Coach's Life.