It’s all about Grassroots Coaching / Chapter 3 - Leading the Player

“Every child is ready to learn something – it’s our job as teachers, coaches, and parents to determine what that child is ready to learn.” —James Hymes

Clipboard Notes -     Chapter 3

Players’ Perceptions: Youngsters in their fantastically honest way are clear about what sports are and how they would like to be involved

Fun and Joy: Young people just naturally love to play games.The energy and desire to play come from the game and from the player’s interest in it.

Maturation: The Joy of playing the game remains at all times and at all levels. 

Motivation: The energy and desire to play come from the game and from the player’s interest in it.

Comments on Clipboard Notes

Players’ Perceptions: Some students in my junior high school math classes were eager learners of that subject. Other students were not.  

Fun and Joy: While coaching basketball teams at the same school, some of these students were my players. In their practice uniforms and basketball shoes, all of these youngsters were eager learners - enjoying themselves.

Maturation: Rights and Responsibilities: Every player has Rights. Just as important; each player has Responsibilities. They are opposite sides of the same coin.

Motivation: Young people just naturally love to play games. Intrinsic motivation tactics used by coaches are very effective. Extrinsic motivation tactics can cause problems for individual players and negatively affect teamwork. 

An Individual Player Readiness Commentary

If Ken is ready to hit the ball and he is allowed to do it, he will have a happy experience.

If Ken is ready to hit the ball and he is not allowed to do it, he will be frustrated.

If Ken isn't ready to hit the ball and he is forced to do it, he will have an unhappy experience.

If Ken isn’t ready to hit the ball and he is not forced to do it, that is OK and Ken is OK.