Goal setting is a valuable tool in coaching. It allows the coaches to not only share their expectations with players but to monitor and support each player singularly and their teams as a whole. It is important that the goals that are set are realistic and attainable allowing players to succeed rather than fail.
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Individual Goals – Players and coaching staff should all be assessed individually and then have a one on one discussion about the season’s goals. These goals do not need to be just on the field, it is important to also include goals for their classes, family, and community.
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Team goals – The team should also have team goals that players can work towards together. Have players brainstorm about what they believe the goals should be for the season and be sure to keep them realistic.
BE SPECIFIC
When discussing goals for your football season it is important to be specific in the expectations you have of your players and coaching staff. Be clear so there is no confusion as to what is expected and ask the player to repeat back or tell you in their own words what their goals are.
Coaching staff and team expectations can quickly spin out of control when looking at district, regional or state playoffs. It is easy to want those accomplishments for your team, however it is more important to make smaller more realistic goals that will move your team in that direction.
MEASURABLE GOALS
Once you have set attainable goals for your players and team you then want to monitor and maintain the goals. You will do this by making sure that the goals set are measurable. An example of a measurable goal would be to assign a defensive player four tackles per game and then at the end of each game keep a tally on the player to determine if they on track to reach their goal.
Setting realistic and attainable goals for your football year will make this season run smoothly. Your players and coaching staff will know what is expected of them and with good communication on goal setting and positive reinforcement your football department will succeed.