One of the most crucial lessons I've learned from the world’s top coaches is this: "KEEP IT SIMPLE."
Too often, coaches—including myself—fall into the trap of believing that complex training sessions and an overload of information will ensure success. This mindset is fundamentally flawed. Over-coaching does far more harm than good, leading to poor results and stalling player development.
When we make coaching overly complicated, we create significant challenges for our players:
- They become confused and anxious.
- They feel restricted in making their own decisions.
- Their confidence suffers.
- They may disengage and stop listening.
- The joy of the game diminishes.
So why do coaches still over-coach despite knowing its detrimental effects? Here are some common reasons:
- Young and inexperienced coaches often try too hard to impress others.
- Coaches under evaluation may seek to demonstrate control over every aspect of training.
- Coaches lacking faith in their players tend to micromanage every detail, from preparation to performance.
- Coaches who doubt themselves may overwhelm players with excessive information, hoping to be liked.
- Ego-driven coaches see players merely as tools to enhance their own reputation.
The pressing question we must address is: how do we stop or avoid over-coaching during training sessions and games?
1. **Believe in yourself** - Confidence and self-belief are the foundations of great coaching.
2. **Be selfless** - Set your ego aside and prioritise the needs of your players and athletes.
3. **Coach in partnership** - Have unwavering faith in your players; this belief fosters their growth and improvement.
4. **Empower your athletes** - Encourage them to make decisions, learn from mistakes, and solve problems. Offer diverse training experiences to enhance their decision-making skills.
5. **Embrace lifelong learning** - Regardless of your coaching level or experience, recognise that coaching is a constant learning journey, and maintain a humble attitude.
In my extensive experience as a coach, I’ve encountered countless coaches who genuinely want what’s best for their players. However, this passion can sometimes manifest as over-coaching. It’s vital to understand that by keeping our coaching approach simple and straightforward, we empower players to grasp concepts, make informed choices, and truly enjoy the game.
Embracing simplicity in our coaching will lead to better performance and create a more rewarding experience for everyone involved.
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