3D Coach: Capturing the Heart Behind the Jersey

by Jeff Duke

With more than 60 million athletes involved in sports in American, it is estimated that one coach will impact more people in one year than the average person does in a lifetime. Today's coach could be one of the greatest greatest authoritative figures in the life of today's adolescent. So the question isn't whether coaches leave a legacy, but rather,
"What will that legacy be?"
Current trending research shows that only 15% of coaches are intentional about coaching beyond the skills and strategies of the game (1st Dimension). A 3-Dimensional Coach understands and harnesses the power of the coaching platform to coach the mind (2nd Dimension) and transform the heart (3rd Dimension), tand they can be the catalysts for internal transformation that guides both the coach and the athlete on a spiritual journey to finding purpose in this performance-based culture of sport.
"Now that's a legacy!"
In "3D Coach," you will learn from National Coaches Training Director Jeff Duke about his own journey through the three dimensions of coaching and how it has impacted his life and those around him. You will also read the personal stories of coaches from all levels who have implemented the 3D concept into their own programs and who have pointed to Jesus Christ, the Master Coach, as the ultimate example of how to lead athletes to true significance.

Genres: Sports, Leadership, Nonfiction

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 11, 2014

Reviews

[lauren caldwell]

First book of 2025 has been crushed!!! I actually really enjoy Jeff Duke as a coach and human; however, I was a little disappointed to see a lack of examples surrounding how to become a 3D Coach. For most of the book he focused on 1D and 2D ideas and then at the end realized he never really mentioned 3D and kind of just threw it in there? Felt a little rushed at the end.

Overall, I love the idea that we can resonate with our student-athletes through their body, mind, and soul. I hope that I can work to incorporate religion more into my coaching style, as God truly should be working through us all. Also! I was happy to see the theme of servant leadership show up again and how I can work to implement that more into coaching.

[Dan George]

Jeff Duke weaves his story of learning and growing as a coach into a book that lays out practical yet pressing lessons for coaches to move past wins and losses and the first dimension to the heart and soul of the athletes they interact with to have real lasting impact. A must read for a church 8 at any level.

[Dave Williams]

Terrific book about next level coaching

Whether you're a new or seasoned coach this book is a must read, especially if you're interested in more than just winning games. This book will help you become a coach who truly transforms the lives of your players.

[Justin Thomas]

I used this book as a small group with coaches. For this book to be ultimately effective, you must know your group and be a strong facilitator. It is a book that leads us into truths of the gospel, but it’s so covert it appeals to coaches at every stage of their walk with Christ.

[Brooklyn Taylor]

This is a great read for all coaches. I will be reading this again over and over throughout my coaching career.

[Trace Humphreys]

Must read for any coach. Our focus can’t just be on the X’s and O’s but also the emotional and spiritual health of our athletes and coworkers.

[Sarah King]

1. The fundamentals 2. The Mind 3. The Heart ❤️ There is so much more than the sport!

[Dan Hickey]

A really helpful resource for coaches who desire to get beyond just teaching the skills of the game and striving after victories. Wins and championships are a worthy goal, but not the most important one. How am I helping my players develop holistically? Am I striving after God in the way I coach? How do I build a positive team culture that forges meaningful relationships? All helpful questions asked and answered by Jeff Duke.

[Jeff Lamb]

Enlightening

Was given this book by a co-worker and didn't necessarily care to read it but I'm very happy I did. I think generation changes make this a necessity for coaches. If you want to motivate athletes the proper way and leave an impact read it. I picked it up during a difficult time during coaching and it made me think deeply about what I was doing and why.

[Josh]

a better way to coach

this book provides a lot of useful ways to better help your athletes. good read for anyone working with groups of people, and especially the younger generation.

[Tom Swanson]

A must read for all coaches

[Joseph]

Must read for coaches

This book will push the boundaries on what you think a coach is and what they should be doing. I would encourage coaches on any level to read this.

[Dave]

Great read. A must read if you coach kids.