While indoor and beach volleyball coaching roles differ significantly, both are crucial for team triumph. To offer fans a deeper understanding of what it takes to excel in this profession, this “Secrets of Coaching Success” series features insights from Europe`s most accomplished coaches, straight from the source.
This seventh installment highlights Jetmund Berntsen, one of today`s most successful beach volleyball coaches. He guides the Beachvolley Vikings, including the world-renowned duo and multi-champions Anders Mol & Christian Sorum. Berntsen also steered the Norwegian men`s national team to victory at the Beachvolley Nations Cup in Vienna last year. Here`s the rest of his interview.
The Nations Cup Experience
Asked about his experience at the recent Nations Cup, Berntsen declared it an “amazing tournament and event!” He praised the unique format and the superb organization by Vienna and Hannes Jagerhofer, expressing hope that it becomes an annual fixture. He added that such a platform is invaluable for inspiring and motivating more teams.
The Trend of Team Competitions
Regarding the increasing number of team competitions like the Nations Cup, Continental Cup, and national leagues, Berntsen views this trend positively, provided events maintain professionalism. He believes more platforms will showcase the sport and attract more participants. He emphasizes the need to improve all competitions so that more players and coaches can sustain themselves through the sport, noting that while national tours are vital for growth, the world circuit remains paramount. He sees immense potential for growth if the global circuit can be collectively enhanced, benefiting both players and coaches.
Individual vs. Team Skills in Coaching
On coaching beach pairs, Berntsen stresses the importance of both individual skill development and improving team interaction, noting that the emphasis depends on the players` level and age. For elite-level team sports, he believes the ability to elevate teammates is crucial. He insists on strong team chemistry, especially given the extensive time players spend together on and off the court without substitutions – “It has to work!”
Misconceptions about Coaching
Berntsen humorously points out a little-known fact: coaches might practice with their opponents the day before a match. He also challenges the common perception that his job is solely about enjoying sunny beaches and exotic locations. He clarifies that it`s a 24/7 lifestyle, involving being away from home and family for 250 days a year, with work continuing even when at home. He acknowledges the demanding nature but states, “But I don’t complain…”
Key to Coaching Success
Berntsen attributes his success to curiosity, active questioning, player involvement, and a focus on building a cohesive team. He highlights being open-minded and valuing daily discussions with players, fellow coaches, and parents. He finds working with just two players too monotonous, preferring the dynamics of a larger team with diverse players and coaching staff. He also actively supports young talents at ToppVolley Norge, stating, “Yes, our life is volleyball and beach volleyball.”
Family Involvement in the Coaching Journey
Berntsen emphasizes the collective “we” when discussing his coaching, attributing much of his progress to his collaboration with Kare. They leverage each other`s strengths for all players, from top performers to rising stars, and also contribute to the girls` program and the beach program at ToppVolley Norway. He describes it as a shared lifestyle, with his entire family deeply involved. He gratefully notes that his family shares his passion, even his dog Kiara (referencing @kiarathevolleydog on Instagram). Despite the intensity, he credits his wife, Anette, for perfectly balancing everything. His children, Mathias and Frida, are on the team, as are three of Kare`s children (Hendrik, Anders, Markus) with two more future talents (Adrian and Melina) in youth national indoor and beach teams, highlighting the extensive family involvement and shared interest.
Core Teaching Philosophy
Berntsen`s primary objective in coaching is to teach players how to win games, viewing competition and victory as core to sports. He strives to create a relaxed yet focused environment, emphasizing the importance of practicing well, being prepared, and always giving their best. He teaches players to quickly recognize diverse game situations and choose optimal solutions, stressing that high-quality practice is paramount. He believes every practice session should include elements of fun, competition, measurable achievements, and insights for the coach.
Role Models and Professional Growth
Berntsen does not follow a specific role model but focuses on continuous self-improvement, identifying his strengths, and exploring new ways to enhance his coaching. He selectively adopts effective strategies from other successful coaches, striving to implement and even improve upon them. He values discussions and evaluations with coaches from various sports, recognizing that everyone has something valuable to share.
Rest and Recovery
Finding respite from the “beach bubble” is challenging given his family`s deep involvement. However, walks in the woods with his two dogs and wife Anette, along with a nice dinner and red wine, help him unwind. He also finds energy in personal exercise, particularly running intervals or playing his “second best sport,” badminton. He playfully expresses a desire to defeat Alexander Horst in badminton, if given the chance.
