Brianne Jenner reflects on the most impactful coaches from her career and highlights one quality that consistently set them apart: emotional intelligence.

She explains why strong leadership isn't defined solely by tactical knowledge or technical skill, but by a coach’s ability to foster connection, trust, and psychological safety. In this clip from the What Makes A Great Coach Panel Discussion at Brock University, Jenner makes a compelling case for why emotional IQ should be considered a foundational coaching skill—and how it helps unlock the full potential of both players and teams.

Key Takeaways:

1. Emotional Intelligence Is the Foundation of Great Coaching
The most influential coaches in Jenner’s career were defined not just by what they knew, but how they connected—with empathy, awareness, and leadership.

2. Coaching Is About Creating the Right Environment
Great coaches build psychologically safe spaces where players feel free to make mistakes, express themselves, and play without fear.

3. You Don’t Need to Know Everything Tactically
While tactical and technical skills are helpful, what matters most is a coach’s ability to empower the people around them.

4. Communication Must Flow Freely
A healthy team culture includes open communication at all levels—player to coach, staff to staff, and peer to peer.

5. Leadership Is About Elevating Others
Coaches with high emotional IQs create conditions that allow everyone else to thrive. That’s what makes playing for them memorable and meaningful.