Games Approach to Sports Coaching

Games Approach to Coaching

The games approach to sports coaching is one that uses the method of teaching the technical and skilful aspects of the sports through different phases; such focusing on different parts of play to enhancing the play to increase skill usage. This type of approach is where the coaches can use their initiative to be a lot more creative with their sessions and ideas. This particular approach requires less instruction from the coaches, with fewer boundaries for the athletes in order for them to introduce their own methods and tactics.

From an athletes perspective the games approach coaching method is considered to be more enjoyable. This is because the athletes have freedom in order to play the game and gain their own knowledge and develop skills they feel they need to work on; as well as trying new skills out for the first time. This then enables the athletes to work on their decision making skills during a game scenario; whereas with the traditional approach, the athletes focus on set techniques and sequences of play that have been planned for them prior to the session.

Sam Snow (2011) identifies that ‘The games approach is taught using a four-step process.’ The four steps he refers to are shown below:

1.       Play a modified game

2.       Help the players discover what they need to do in order to play the game successfully

3.       Teach the skills of the game

4.       Practice the skills in another game

These steps indicate that the games approach is seen as a laid back approach to coaching. By all means, discipline and normal coaching procedures will be followed, but in terms of the game itself, the athletes will have a lot more freedom.

As a coach I enjoy this approach a lot, as it gives you the chance to be creative with some of the games you try to work on the skills. Because the athletes are given the freedom to try new skills or develop existing ones, designing fun games in order to give them that satisfaction I believe is rewarding.