Coaching – Progression of a Player
Teaching/Coaching involves many stages and phases. Applying the knowledge of growth and development is instrumental in successfully working with a player. At different ages different things are possible. The process needs to follow a simple progression of rules and drills that help establish constant improvement and success.
- Hands: grips, strokes production
- Feet: footwork , movement, positioning and balance.
- Mind/Eyes: anticipation, reaction, tactics and competitive skills
One thing I learned from teaching/coaching is that a solid foundation of developing proper grips, strokes, and footwork in the beginning stages is essential to continued success. If this is established, the winning will come. As I’ve said many times, winning early is based on size, strength, and who takes the most lessons. This should not be confused with talent or how to develop talent for the long haul.
These are keys to developing solid players.
- Establish goals and work hard
- Build a solid foundation
- Practice with a purpose
- Pattern each drill to build for future drills
- Develop independent players let them design their own programs
