In reference to the article – U8 Girls Coaching Points
Sadly this is what’s perceived as effective coaching, “In general, society identifies coaches as “great” based on two criteria: win/loss records and media attention” (Becker, 2009). If the coach using these comments had won the game, little would be said, brushed off as ‘motivation’, intensity’, ‘toughness’, ‘competitive mindset’, but it’s simply abuse!
Coaching behavior’s are what determiner’s a great coach. Empowering, supportive, positive, and questioning, with healthy levels of feedback and instruction. This isn’t traditional, so is overlooked with importance placed on ‘leagues, brackets, and tournaments’.
Until more attention is placed on athlete centered practices supported by evidence based research, the kids will continue to suffer and dropout, and the big picture is the game will suffer.