The principles of a coaching session
- Safety is your first concern.
- Use your aim as an important tool to give your session structure.
- Make your explanation effective through explanation, demonstration and/or questioning.
- Vary the skill in exercises and game-like situations.
- Adapt your exercise if players get bored.
- Use the following tools to challenge players:
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- Use of space;
- Increase/decrease number of players;
- Time - vary time for an activity or the speed of the players (walk, jog, run or sprint);
- Vary positioning of players;
- Change material, e.g. use two balls instead of one.
- Create an environment in which players are not afraid to make mistakes.
- Observe players’ performances.
- Give attention to individuals, groups and the team.
- Encourage player input and make the session interactive.
- Maximise players’ physical activity.
- Players should feel they have made progress at the conclusion of a practice.
- Review the practice.
- Make practices enjoyable.