Update : January 15, 2022

• A coach is a vehicle to “carry” someone to a destination.
• The first use of coach described a teacher who “carried” a student over a tough examination.
• Later use of coach was in Athletic Development (e.g. coaching an individual or a team in a sports).
• There are Professional Coaches, Certified Coaches and Club Coaches.

• A therapist focuses on the past.
  A coach focuses on the future.

• A consultant helps to solve a problem (of a company or a client).
  A coach provides suggestions and frameworks (that can be used by the client, who is accountable for solving the problem).

• A mentor may advise, counsel and coach.
  A coach focuses on coaching (and may not advise or counsel).

• A trainer sets objectives for the trainee.
  A coach does not set objectives for the client/individual. The client/individual sets objectives for himself/herself.

• An athletic developer directs behavior of individuals and teams based on the developer’s experience and knowledge.
  A coach focuses on identifying opportunity for development based on individual strengths and capabilities.