PaceSetter Book

Coaching & Leadership 2

2.2 Communication

WEB COPY ©EVEQUE Effective communication will ensure good delivery of an activity session and may also contribute to the learning rate of a young athlete. 2.2.1 Starting out • If the session is taking place outdoors then it is very important that the children do not face the sun. • Instructions must be clear and simple. For example, when stopping a group tell them they must listen for the command ‘stop’ or the ‘sound of the whistle’. • Try to start activities without too much talk. • Do not shout unnecessarily but ensure that the person farthest away can hear. • Voice and body language should be enthusiastic towards the group. • Prepare a written prompt card, if necessary, to act as a reminder of what activities are to be introduced. • Think twice before stopping an enjoyable activity. • Move to a position where visible to the entire group. • Call ‘stop’ or ‘blow a whistle’. • Wait until everyone is quiet then give instructions – ‘Silence gets Silence’. • If the group is large it may be better to sit them down (weather conditions permitting). Remember… • When the whole group is stopped, it means that there is something to say to the whole group. For example, correction of a general fault or new instruction. • Do not highlight the fact to the whole group that several individuals may be performing the activity incorrectly and therefore when helping an individual, go near to the young athlete and concentrate upon him or her but remain aware of the general group control. 2.2.3 Control and Discipline When sessions are interesting and contain variety and activity there is often less inclination for young athletes to misbehave. To maintain discipline throughout the session the coach should: • Try to remain calm under all forms of stress. • Be consistent, fair and set achievable high standards. • Try to spot potential trouble and intervene. • In periods of high tension, try to win time by removing the young athlete from the situation WEB COPY ©EVEQUE and talk calmly to him or her. Do not let him or her lose face in front of friends. • Avoid confrontation at all costs but ensure control of the young athletes. 2.2.2 Stopping the group • Before the group is stopped, know exactly what to say.

2.2.4 Motivating youngsters • Generous feedback and praise is helpful to young beginners. • Always be positive and constructive and avoid negative language.

• Your own energy and enthusiasm can be infectious. When you appear lively and interested in everyone around you, they often respond with similar levels of activity. When you show interest in young athletes, if only for a few seconds, they feel a sense of recognition and belonging. • Avoid favouritism as this may discourage others.

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