7 HALF TIME TIPS for Coaches
- Before you start to talk consider how to make sure your players are listening. Try a routine, such as counting down from 3-to-1, so that you give your players a chance to calm down, whilst also letting them know you expect them to be listening by the time you reach “1”.
- What you tell the team will depend on how the team is performing, the score and the coach’s perspective of the match. Take into account all of the game’s factors when preparing your half-time team talk, as each factor could affect how you want to approach the second half. What is working for us? What areas do we need to improve on? How? How can we move the ball more quicker? How are we going to perform better in the second half?
- Prepare some relevant off-the-cuff questions to gain and keep your players’ attention, and to make them think about their performances – this way they’re more likely to reflect on how to improve in the second half.
- The half-time break in a match is not just about refuelling. It’s a crucial time for the coach and team to gather their thoughts and prepare mentally for the challenges of the second half. Don’t be afraid to ask your players what their thoughts are – this will get them involved and give them ownership of the team talk and their performance – just make sure you ask them after you’ve shared your own thoughts first!
- If you have something specific to say to them, keep it short and simple – ideally no more than one or two points. Small bits of information are much easier for players, particularly young players, to comprehend.
- In bad weather at half time – rain, wind or bright sunshine – make sure the players are protected from the weather conditions and can see you clearly. If necessary, that may mean you will have to talk to them facing the weather.
- Always be positive – this will rub off on your team.