THE COACHING CRAFT BLOG

Introduction Coaching has evolved dramatically over the past decade. We now understand that athlete performance is influenced not only by physical preparation but also by psychological ownership. Yet many coaches still default to overly directive approaches that leave athletes dependent, passive, and disengaged. One principle consistently highlighted in recent sports science research is athlete autonomy – the idea that athletes should feel a sense of control, choice, and res

Athlete Centred Coaching: A Pathway to Long-Term Success Understanding the Importance of Athlete Centred Coaching Athlete centred coaching has gained prominence in both sports and education. This approach emphasizes the athlete's experience and development. It goes beyond mere instruction. Instead, it fosters autonomy, decision-making, resilience, and reflective skills. In today's competitive environments, athletes face increasing cognitive and psychological demands. Long-ter

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to thrive in the face of challenges, while others crumble? The answer might lie in their mindset. In her groundbreaking book, "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success," Carol Dweck introduces us to the transformative power of a growth mindset. Fixed vs. Growth: Which One Are You? Dweck explains that we all operate with one of two mindsets: Fixed Mindset:  Believing that intelligence and abilities are static, fixed traits. People with

Setting goals is a fundamental part of achieving success in any field, and youth sports are no exception. For young athletes, learning how to set and achieve goals can build confidence, enhance motivation, and ultimately improve performance. But how do we guide them towards effective goal setting? Let's dive into some practical techniques. Why Goal Setting Matters for Young Athletes: Before we explore the techniques, it's essential to understand why goal setting is so crucial