PE26 Performance Feedback Part 2

Summary

This video script explores the various methods of performance feedback in sports, emphasizing the importance of clear communication between coaches and athletes, as well as among teammates. It discusses the balance between immediate feedback, such as correcting technical mistakes during a game, and more reflective, in-depth discussions to address underlying issues. The script also highlights the significance of building trust and mutual respect in the coach-athlete relationship, as well as how to manage feedback without letting emotions interfere, ensuring athletes take ownership of their performance and work towards improvement.

Takeaways

• 😀 Performance feedback in sports can be both immediate (e.g., correcting an action during a game) and reflective (e.g., reviewing stats or performance after the game).
• 😀 Immediate feedback from a coach, such as correcting a player's posture or shot technique, helps players adjust quickly during a game or practice.
• 😀 In a team environment, performance feedback can be given between athletes, such as holding each other accountable for mistakes (e.g., missing serves in volleyball).
• 😀 It's essential for teammates to have mutual respect for each other in order to accept performance feedback and make adjustments.
• 😀 Coaches should focus on developing trust and relationships with athletes to understand how to give effective performance feedback that promotes growth.
• 😀 Performance feedback, while important, should not be the sole focus of coaching; the primary goal is to help athletes improve and develop their skills over time.
• 😀 Establishing open communication and trust between coaches and athletes allows feedback to be received without affecting the athlete's self-worth.
• 😀 Feedback should be based on factual performance (e.g., statistics or missed opportunities) rather than emotional reactions to the performance.
• 😀 Athletes should learn to separate their emotions from the facts of their performance in order to respond constructively to feedback.
• 😀 Constructive feedback helps athletes understand what went wrong and what steps to take to improve, promoting accountability and continuous improvement.
• 😀 Coaches must emphasize the importance of growth and effort, making sure athletes understand that mistakes are part of the learning process and can be used for improvement.

Q & A

Why did the athlete in the script cut reps during training?

The athlete cut reps because her knees were hurting, and she was afraid to tell the coach about the issue. She feared getting in trouble as a freshman and transfer student, so she chose to cut reps rather than risk being seen as weak or unable to perform.

How was the issue of cutting reps addressed by the speaker?

The issue was addressed through a conversation where the speaker approached the athlete in a non-accusatory manner. The conversation focused on understanding why the athlete was cutting reps, and after acknowledging the mistake, the athlete apologized, and the situation was resolved with improved communication and support.

What is an example of immediate performance feedback mentioned in the script?

An example of immediate performance feedback is when the coach quickly tells the player, 'Bring your elbow in,' during a game. This type of feedback is given on the spot to correct a specific mistake and is not part of a detailed post-performance review.

What did the coach say when the athlete missed a serve?

When the athlete missed a serve, the coach would remind them, 'That's your one,' indicating that each athlete was allowed only one miss before focusing on perfect performance moving forward.

How did the speaker and their partner manage mistakes in volleyball regarding missed serves?

The speaker and their partner had a mutual understanding that they could only miss one serve per set. If one missed a serve, the other would immediately acknowledge it by saying, 'That's your one,' creating a system of accountability without needing constant coaching from their actual coach.

What role does mutual respect play in athlete-to-athlete performance feedback?

Mutual respect is crucial in athlete-to-athlete feedback. Athletes must be able to hold each other accountable without causing offense. If there is enough respect, athletes can acknowledge mistakes and work to improve, even if the outcome isn't immediately successful.

Why is performance feedback not the most important aspect of coaching?

While performance feedback is essential, the most important aspect of coaching is building a relationship with athletes. By understanding each athlete's individual needs and establishing trust, coaches can provide more effective feedback that helps athletes improve both in performance and in their overall development.

How can athletes separate their self-worth from performance feedback?

Athletes can separate their self-worth from performance feedback by focusing on the facts, not emotions. When feedback is based on statistics and specific actions, athletes can see it as a chance to improve rather than a reflection of their value as individuals.

What is meant by 'facts over emotions' in the context of performance feedback?

'Facts over emotions' refers to the idea that athletes should view feedback as objective information, such as statistics or specific errors, rather than allowing their emotions like anger, frustration, or defensiveness to cloud their judgment. This approach helps athletes take ownership of their mistakes and focus on improvement.

What was the speaker's approach to performance feedback as a coach?

The speaker's approach to performance feedback as a coach involves focusing on building strong relationships with athletes. By knowing their athletes' needs and providing feedback based on trust and understanding, coaches can offer effective performance critiques that are constructive rather than demoralizing.