How to deliver an effective pre-match team talk
- Darren Moss
- 13 February 2019
Darren Moss, FA Regional Coach Mentor Officer, outlines his five top tips to help grassroots coaches deliver an effective pre-match team talk.
EnvironmentThe age and experience of your players should dictate the emphasis you place on pre-match team talks. Lots of coaches try to deliver a rousing and passionate team talk before games but often it is not needed. For most young players, how you help them feel part of their surroundings is more important than any changing room speech.
On arrival, welcome the players and ask them about their week. This will help you start to understand the feelings of all the individuals in front of you - don’t just assume they are comfortable. As you get to know the group better - and how they feel on matchday - it will allow you to be more flexible and inclusive with what you say and how you say it.
Consistency Many young players will feel anxiety and nerves on the day of a game. As a result, it makes a positive pre-match approach even more important. During your team talk, or through chatting with individuals, avoid dwelling on past mistakes and instead remind the group of:
- what went well in training last week
- positive highlights from the previous game
- positive individual performances.
Consistency in behaviour is also key – something you should try to keep track of across the season. If you are relaxed and approachable at training, but less so on matchday, the feeling will transfer to the players.
Visuals, such as a whiteboard, can be used to consolidate your messages
TimingThe timing and duration of a pre-match team talk is important. Before you start, make sure everyone is ready and focused and other distractions (kit, toilet breaks) are complete.
Focus on three key points - one each for in possession, out of possession and transition - from last week’s training or game and deliver them in language that the players understand.
With young players, consider delivering your pre-match talk in earshot of parents. Your positive and inclusive approach may also influence the parents on the touchline before kick-off.
CommunicationVisuals, such as a whiteboard, can be used to consolidate your pre-match messages. A formation on a board or bibs or cones on the ground may all help. If your players are older, set-pieces may be printed out or shown using technology.
Crucially, be yourself and aim to be calm and positive. If you do need to change tact and tone of voice it will be more impactful. Keep some things in reserve in order to impact the players positively at different times.
Enjoy the experience Remember the matchday experience is a learning opportunity for both players and coaches. Be part of the team and enjoy the day. If the players understand that you are an extension of them and that you care, the trust between you and the group will grow. Be the coach that is remembered as a positive influence. You win, lose, learn and draw together – that’s why you’re a team.
Darren Moss is an FA Tutor and holder of the UEFA A Licence. He is currently completing an MSc in sports coaching with Worcester University.
