Okay, so today was a big day – a volleyball game where I decided to really focus on coaching during the match. Here’s how it went down.
Getting Started
First off, I made sure I had all my gear ready. This wasn’t just about showing up. I packed my notepad, a couple of pens (because one always runs out, right?), and of course, my trusty whistle. I even threw in a few energy bars – coaching can be surprisingly draining!
Pre-Game Prep
Before the game even started, I gathered the team. We went over the game plan one last time. I kept it simple:
- Focus on serves – get them in!
- Strong communication – call for the ball, every time.
- Positive attitude – even if we mess up, shake it off.
I could see some nerves, so I just reminded them to have fun and trust their training.
During the Game
This is where the real action happened. I positioned myself where I could see the whole court, but I also made sure I wasn’t in the ref’s way. It’s a delicate balance!
During timeouts, I used my notepad to jot down quick observations. Stuff like, “Their setter likes to tip to zone 4,” or “We’re slow to cover the block.” These notes helped me give specific feedback, not just general “play better” type stuff.
I also paid close attention to individual players. If someone was struggling, I’d pull them aside during a sub and offer a quick tip or encouragement. For example, our middle blocker was getting frustrated with her hits, so I reminded her to keep her elbow high and snap her wrist. Little adjustments can make a big difference.
One of the biggest things I focused on was communication. I kept yelling reminders like, “Call it!” and “Who’s got it?”. It sounds basic, but it’s amazing how often players forget to talk in the heat of the moment. A loud court is a winning court!
Post-Game Wrap-Up
Win or lose, I brought the team together after the final whistle. We did a quick debrief. Instead of focusing on mistakes, I asked questions like, “What worked well?” and “What can we improve for next time?”. This helped keep the mood positive and focused on learning.
I made sure everyone left the game with good spirit. Volleyball is about teamwork, and that includes supporting each other through thick and thin.
I felt great about the game, and can implement more new actions next time!
