Top 3 things your coach is thinking
Coaches are strategists. They collect data, analyze weaknesses and strengths in both tactical and technical skills, and create practice plans and tactical systems based on that. Systems are also adjusted depending on the opponent, ice conditions, players body language, and other factors. Top three things a coach is thinking:
Setting and managing expectations for players and parents.
Problem solving and practicing with a development plan.
Think 10 steps ahead into the future.
Expectations are set early that are age and team level specific. Expectations for an age group travel team will clearly highlight improvement points. It also creates a clear understanding of what needs to be done to earn ice time in games. In order to find a solution, we must identify the problem. And hockey is all about problem solving at every inch of the ice.
Speaking of problem solving, the coaches practice plans must be malleable. There is no carbon copy that can apply to every group of athletes. While there is a general system, we must build it around the athletes. Nurturing the strength and pushing out the weaknesses. Coaches look to establish game-like drills and in-practice situations to develop both skills and decision making sense.
Thinking ahead into the future is top of mind for every coach. Where do we want to take the team and where do we want to take these individual players? Developing key performance indicators (KPIs) and gauging progress allows for confidence building and development tracking. Eye on the future allows us to strategize.
Every coach is invested in their athletes. Whether it is taking them to the next level, helping them become a problem solver, plow through adversity, creating character, etc. Coaches are fundamentally cheerleaders for the success of their students. Those athletes that recognize that tend to show vast improvements in shorter periods of time.
See you on the ice…
