Half-time Talks

Here's a few tips on what to say at half-time, and how to say it!

Date:         Wed, 8 Apr 1998 22:58:20 -0600
From: Mary Dyck 
Subject:      [COACH] Pre/ Half-time Talks

When I mentor new coaches I tell them to pick three things  that are the
goals for this game (the goals are selected based on scouting the
opponents, work done in practice and phase of the season):

1. something about offense (work the wall pass, keep it on the ground,
etc)
2. something about defense (recovery runs, mark tight on ball side, etc)
3. something about "team" (communicate, encourage each other,
goalie/sweeper talk, etc)

The coach shares these in the pregame talk.

 The Half time talk reminds the players of the three goals and adds some
tendancies or pointers about how the opponents are reacting on offense,
defence and "team".

For new coaches (and players), its nice and simple but effective.

An aside....Nothing helps a discouraged team more than a confident coach
who has a plan (and information on execution) going into the second half
and lets the team know that he/she believes they are capable of a good
effort and result.

mary dyck

Date:         Wed, 8 Apr 1998 16:02:37 -0500
From: matt townsend 
Subject:      [COACH] Half-time Talks

A while ago someone posted a question regarding half-time talks.  After
digging through my files I was able to uncover the following.  I'm not sure
of the original source.  That being said i think most of the comments are
bang on.

1.      Time is limited.  Keep distractions to a minimum.

2.      Players need time to settle down.

3.      Gather players together, away from crowds.

4.      The coach should stand while players sit.

5.      The coach should have planned his/her remarks prior to speaking.

6.      Be simple, direct and clear.

7.      Allow players time to make observations and raise questions.

8.      Do not talk right to the end of halftime.


Peace.

Matt

Date:         Wed, 8 Apr 1998 19:26:47 -0400
From: Bruce Brownlee 
Subject:      Re: [COACH] Half-time Talks

9.  Players can not remember more than about 3 things.  It's better to focus on even fewer if you want real change.

bruce