Decision Making
Throughout a competition performance athletes need to make many decisions that will influence the quality of the performance, for example, whether to shoot or pass the ball in soccer, who to pass too, or whether or not to make a shot for goal. Coaches need to provide opportunities for decision making in training so that the athlete can improve their skills. This results in clear decisions when playing the actual sport
Observation – Coaching staff may use visual aids like coaching boards to show their players different strategic plans that are in place, as well as observing other player to see where faults may lie. Questioning – Decision making can be improved by having players work though game using scenarios. For example, on a coaching board having miniature players being moved around by the coach to demonstrate different plays that may occur. Players need to ask questions like “what if he moves there” and “how do we create more space in one area of a field.” Whole, part and whole approach – Players need to be able to visualise the whole game so that they can learn their specific roles and position. Initially, players should walk through their skill when first learning it, to ensure they have a fundamental understanding of what needs to be achieved. Variation – Whilst training, there needs to be alternatives understood for different plays and circumstances. Creativity – A team approach to decision making is encouraged, opposed to strict coach directions. This encourages all players to explore unforeseen difficult situations and problem solve creatively as a team. |