Discussion on Coaches Developing Players (copied from Princeton thread)

[Radar3535]

Re: Discussion on Coaches Developing Players (copied from Princeton thread)

Here's a wrinkle: in a word........ Goalies?

The "...not so hypothetical" was actually a reference to goalies.

 

[Skate79]

Re: Discussion on Coaches Developing Players (copied from Princeton thread)

To tag team you a little bit Binny, I have often, in 10 years, heard UMD players speak about why they chose UMD. It seems like every time I ask, every player talks about how they wanted to come here to learn from Miller and the people she puts together (be it other players or coaching staff) to become a better player. Development and growth is on their minds first and foremost.

But having been a coach, I can say that there is no secret formula and it's a constant dance with each individual athlete and their individual circumstances-- to create opportunities to have them develop as an all around athlete. Practice, performance, strength development, and character development all have so many variables that it is impossible to say which activity contributes the most. Somedays, I think it's a crap shoot. No matter how much you think it over and try to formulate the right plan for player and for team, sometimes there's a certain amount that is out of your (and the athlete's) control.

Great points that are reinforced by binnyrus' story on Sara O'Toole. No question that Shannon Miller's success can be partially attributed to the attitude that these players have coming in; play at UMD and become a better, more dynamic player. That's internal motivation meeting opportunity head on.

The psychological aspect is so critical. If a player has the confidence and the drive to improve, given the proper opportunity and coaching, anything is possible. Of course, some in the Brown thread might disagree because of the ongoing debate on the merits of Digit Murphy as a head coach.

Speaking of coaching, we haven't really addressed the coach's system and how a player 'fits' that system. That certainly can contribute to the success or decline of a player during her tenure at the school.