Before providing feedback on poor tactical performance, what should a coach assess?

The most effective approach before providing feedback on poor tactical performance is to assess whether the student has the necessary skill to execute the decision. Understanding the skill level of an athlete is crucial because tactical decisions often rely on a foundation of technical skills.

If a player lacks the necessary skills to implement a strategy effectively, then tactical comprehension alone is insufficient for improvement. Without the ability to execute, feedback on tactics could be misplaced or lead to frustration rather than growth. Therefore, evaluating skill ensures that any feedback given is relevant and actionable, focusing on enhancing the player’s performance rather than on understanding theory alone.

Evaluating a player’s understanding of the game can provide context for the tactical decisions made, but unless the player possesses the skills to execute those decisions, a deeper exploration of tactical acumen won’t lead to effective improvements.

While it may be beneficial to understand the opinions of other team members to gauge team dynamics or morale, it is not a prerequisite for providing constructive feedback on an individual’s tactical performance. Effective coaching relies on a clear assessment of the capabilities of each athlete first, thereby allowing for targeted interventions that consider both skill and tactical understanding.