Decision making is a crucial aspect of football, and it plays an even more significant role in the development of young footballers. Coaches play a vital role in shaping the decision-making skills of young players, and their interventions can either enhance or inhibit the development of these skills.
Decision making is the ability to choose the best course of action in a given situation. In football, this means knowing when to pass, when to dribble, when to shoot etc. Young footballers need to develop these skills to become successful players. The ability to make the correct decision quickly and accurately can be the difference between winning and losing a game.
Coaches have a significant impact on the development of decision-making skills in young players. They can help young players learn the fundamentals of the game, and they can also provide guidance on how to approach different situations on the field. However, coaches must strike a balance between providing guidance and allowing players to make their own decisions.
Too much intervention can be detrimental to the development of decision-making skills in young footballers. If coaches are constantly telling players what to do, they are not giving them the opportunity to think for themselves. This can result in players becoming overly reliant on their coaches, which can hinder their development as independent thinkers and decision makers.
On the other hand, coaches who allow their players to make their own decisions can help them develop their decision-making skills. This approach allows young players to learn from their mistakes and take ownership of their decisions. This can lead to a greater sense of confidence on the field and a more well-rounded player overall.
Coaches can also help young players develop their decision-making skills by providing feedback and encouragement. When a player makes a good decision, coaches should acknowledge and praise their efforts. If a player makes a mistake, coaches should provide constructive feedback and guidance on how to improve. This approach helps players develop a growth mindset, where they view mistakes as opportunities to learn and improve.
In conclusion, decision making is a critical aspect of football, and it plays a crucial role in the development of young players. Coaches have a significant impact on the development of decision-making skills, and their interventions can either enhance or inhibit this development. To help young players develop their decision-making skills, coaches must strike a balance between providing guidance and allowing players to make their own decisions. With the right approach, coaches can help young footballers become confident, independent decision makers and ultimately accelerate their development.
Scott Rogers
Coach Talk 