Command style coaching is becoming less of an effective method in connecting with players and improving performance on the field. Telling a player what to do is becoming less of an effective tool for connection that leads to application.
Game
I coached a U17 girls’ team in the Westchester Youth Soccer League 3 game mini-season. For the second game, I made sure I shared the pre-game plan regarding set plays, team formation, and starting lineup. I specifically mentioned the previous day’s training goals as a refresher.
We earned a free-kick, about 30-35 yards from goal. In my mind, the distance was too far for a shot on goal. Up comes JD, who blasts the ball high and wide.
The following week, specifically placed emphasis on what not to do with set plays in our attacking half. Pointed out angle and distance should In the 2nd half our FK on the 40-yard line, OG shoots…tame shot to goalie.
As I reflected on my team’s performance, it was apparent that my coaching did not connect with my players.
Coaching-Learning Process
How often have you seen your pre-game talks and training session goals fail to occur in a game? You coached them, so they should have learned.
Coaching is about having an effect on players…it should lead to a change in behavior.
How Players Learn
Young players do not learn in the same way as adults, especially when the learning process involves both intellectual and physical activity (US Soccer Curriculum)
Age conditions the way a player perceives and interacts with others. Age is a critical component that should determine coaching content and methodology.
Initial Stage (5 to 8 Years Old)
Players have an egocentric conception of the word, as they gather experiences to interact with the surroundings and with others.
Connecting with players by creating a variety of individual small-sided games and activities with basic and brief explanation. Questions need to be clear and concise. Generous praise goes a long way in building confidence.
Basic Stage (9 to 12 Years Old)
This is often referred to as the ‘golden age of learning’ and the most important stage for skill development. Hero worship, identification with successful teams/famous players and a craving for imaginative skills typify their mentality.
This is a time of transition from self-centered to self-critical.
Connecting with players by demonstration, designing 4v4/5v5 games. Encourage to watch games, video clips.
Coach needs to demonstrate sensitivity (listener), enthusiasm and be a motivator. At times give ownership to the players…let them design a part of the practice. Expand using guided questions and asking players to demonstrate can check for understanding.
Intermediate Stage – 13 & 14 Years Old
Players tend to be self-critical, rebellious but have a strong commitment to the team. Understanding tactics within the game is an important step in the learning process.
Connecting with players by creating training sessions that are challenging, technically and tactically. Coach needs to be knowledgeable and possess a strong personality. Must understand when to be patient versus demanding.
Give ownership to the team, let them have a voice in team rules. Co-constructed goals will have players holding themself accountable.
Create problems and probe for answers using guided questions.
Advanced Stage – 15 – 17 Years Old
A critical time in a player’s development when stop playing due to other interests, lack of success, shortage of playing opportunities, poor leadership. Players tend to lack mental toughness and self-confidence. Being self-critical, they struggle with the desire to be competitive which is not always accepted by their peers. Attention and security are needed.
Coaches need to demonstrate leadership by creating a culture of team spirit and discipline. Coach needs to be charismatic, knowledgeable, articulate while being a disciplinarian. A thoughtful persuader.
Conclusion
Connecting with your players demands the coach to have a clear understanding of the age/stage of development as a starting point. More important is to have a sound understanding of the player’s psycho-social state.
Checking for understanding is crucial. This should not only be by asking for a repeat of the answer. Have them demonstrate the moment in real-time supports that your coaching is getting closer to be learned.
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