Developing A Club Vision

Dragon Boat Club: Vision & Growth Plan Checklist

I have compiled a quick checklist that outlines the essentials of the “business of dragon boating”. Keep track of what your club already has in place and take score!

Club Mission

• Our club has a clearly stated mission or purpose.
• Members can explain what our club stands for in one or two sentences.
• Our culture and values are written, shared, and actively practiced.
• New members are oriented into our culture and expectations.

Coaching Alignment

• Coaches agree on technique fundamentals.
• Coaches communicate consistent cues and messages.
• Training sessions feel intentional, not improvise.
• Coaching decisions are based on a shared philosophy, not personalities.

Training & Development Structure

• There is a periodized yearly training plan (off-season, build, peak, recovery).
• There is a clear athlete development pathway (beginner - intermediate -competitive).
• Paddler development is tracked (technique, fitness, attendance, performance).
• Athletes receive regular feedback and given tools to improve.

Leadership Clarity

• Leadership roles are clearly defined (coach, captain, board, committees).
• Communication channels are known and followed through for transparency.
• Decisions are made according to process and role assignment.
• Leaders model the club’s manuals policies and procedures.

Club Culture & Cohesion

• Each team operates according to their mandate and guiding principles.
• Conflicts are addressed early and respectfully by following policy.
• Attendance and commitment is set according to level of paddling
• The environment feels motivating, safe, and growth focused.

Athlete Retention & Experience

• Athletes feel supported physically, mentally, and emotionally.
• New members feel welcomed and included.
• Experienced paddlers feel challenged and valued.
• Turnover is low and primarily due to lifestyle, not dissatisfaction.

Vision for the Future

• The club has clear 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year goals.
• Members understand the club’s future direction.
• There is excitement and energy about growth.
• Goals are revisited annually and adjusted intentionally.

Scoring Guide

Count the number of boxes checked:

24–28 checks → High-performing club with strong vision

18–23 checks → Healthy club with room for growth

12–17 checks → Club lacks alignment; clarity and planning needed

Less than 12 → Club is operating without a clear vision or plan

Learn more about what we will be covering January 2026 in this LIVE training: https://cherylroose.com/dragon-boat-coaching-course-build-healthy-team-cultures