METHODS AND TOOLS USED BY THE COUNTY COACH
Basically it is all about creating an environment for each individual player to learn and develop in their own time. Players learn at different stages in each corner and the coaching environment should reflect this. As coaches we should try to challenge each player individually using the 4 corner model to relate to their stage of development and support each players learning style. It is essential to meet all the player’s individual needs by using effective changes and challenges throughout the session. The emphasis should be on the players making decisions at all times and them feeling it is OK to make mistakes. Giving the players opportunities to self correct is very important and guidance should be given as and when needed.
THE WHITE BOARD
This is a valuable tool for the coach to use as players have different learning styles
i.e.: visual learners, auditory learners and kinaesthetic (“doing”) learners.
The use of the white board can show visually the session set up and players should be encouraged to interact with the board as well as each other. For example letting the players draw on it, move magnetic pieces etc. This way they can relate to their practice better and feel a sense of ownership throughout the session.
SET UP AND LAY OUT OF EACH SESSION
Each session can be split up into different area’s/zones and coned off clearly with markers.
• PRACTICE AREA
Where the drills, practices and pitches are set up
• “THE BOOT ROOM”
This is where all the ball, bibs, cones can be kept
• “DRINK’S ZONE”
Where the players keep and have their drinks
• “THINK BOX” or "TEAM BENCH"
This area is very important and ONLY the coach and players can come in here, no drinks or equipment. This gives players a better chance to maintain focus and stay on task. Whilst in the Think Box, the White board is used as a visual aid and point of reference.
Within every session you will come across players in the following stages of development:
• Unconsciously unskilled – Beginners
• Consciously unskilled – Players who can for example see as pass and try to play it at the right time but have not yet got the technical abilities to complete a successful pass.
• Unconsciously skilled - Players who are technically skilled but do not yet understand when and where to use these skills to be best effective.
• Consciously skilled – This is a player who has both the technique and understands when and where to use it to be most effective and achieve a successful outcome.
The challenge for the coach is to be recognise at what stage each player is at and help them to become a “consciously skilled” player, who makes the right decisions at the right time and has the technical knowledge and ability to gain success in any given situation. Through creating a positive learning environment the coach can manage mistakes by setting challenges related to the individual player and facilitate how they get to the point of success.
For more information on Long Term Player Development please click on the related document to the right hand side of the page.