BY DAVID CLARKE

A few thoughts to consider before your next session.

1. Do you coach in absolutes? (“never do this, always do that”).

2. Do you constantly yell orders at your players rather than let them make their own decisions on the pitch?

3. Are your players receiving conflicting advice from coaches and parents?

4. Do your players look nervous and uncomfortable on the pitch, looking to you and others for help?

5. Do your players sometimes ask to be substituted?

Which coach are you?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, you are possibly guilty of over-coaching. Try the following tips to get you back on the right track:

1. Avoid “never” – ask your players what they think, then tell them what you think and why.

2. Give your players the space to make their own decisions and let them make their own mistakes – they will learn.

3. Don’t shout so much – if they can solve their on-field problems by themselves you’ve done a good job.