I'm an old fart but it seemed like back in the 80-90's that coaching was the best secret weapon.

Is it still? Is it more common now than then?

Who knows, maybe the Web and Powermeter, etc., has somehow reduced the need. But my hunch is that it hasn't. Although I see the Web as being an amazing tool, it seems like it's certainly not enough to optimize results. And by results I mean the podium but also all the other relevant levels -- team relations, public relations, development, personal potential, manners.

Of course, coach quality is critical, but without a good coach, I'd think a team would likely be far below its potential. Yes, no?

--JP