Perseverance & Determination are life skills we want to help young players develop through sport. In this module, Positive Psychology Expert, Lara Mossman & PDP Co-Founder, Dave Wright discuss how you can support players in this area and deliver some practical sessions on the grass.
How Coaching for Character Works
- Watch the video of Lara & Dave discussing the character trait
- Make some notes as to how this applies to your team or key points you want to remember
- View the two session plan videos presented by Dave with practices for you to implement with your players on the grass
- Download the PDF session plan of the practice, read through the rules, possible constraints and considerations and adapt the practice for your players
Coaching for Character is about the players working on character building, developing character strengths and using the game of football to deliver this personal growth. This is not the time for a tactical masterclass from the coach, but a time for the players to work together, face challenges and get success. From a coaching perspective, use your observation and listening skills, ask questions and allow the sessions to flow.
Introduction Video: Perseverance & Determination
Key Points
- Encourage persistence
- Set challenges to test the players and be clear as to why
- Affirm behaviour that aligns with the character traits
- Promote peer to peer feedback and encouragement
Video Session Plan 1
Takeaways:
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- Quick reactions in transition
- Bravery in defence
- Speed of recovery and desire off the ball
- Positive forward runs
- Determination when defending outnumbered
- Quick decisions on the ball
Click here to download Session Plan 1 PDF
Video Session Plan 2
Takeaways
- Reinforce excellent pressing behaviours
- Praise high energy movement to support the ball
- Look for determination and persistence in 1v1s
- Observe whether players show desire when outnumbered
- Encourage composure when taking on a new role
- Ensure players value discomfort of a new challenge
Click here to download Session Plan 2 PDF
Additional Resources
- 7 Steps to Self Motivated Decision Makers – Lara Mossman
- Who We Are is How We Play – James Vaughan
- Sports Psychology with Dan Abrahams
- Creating Positive Sports Environments – Lara Mossman
- From Caution to Courage: The Role of Character Strengths in Coaching – Lara Mossman
- How can I help my players motivation? Dan Wright, James Vaughan & Dave Wright
- Player Motivation with James Vaughan & Dan Wright
- The Path to Excellence: Developing Warriors Not Winners – Reed Maltbie
- Valuing Discomfort – James Vaughan