How to Solve the Issue of Playing Time and Communicate It Effectively to Your Players Using myPerforma This Season

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Playing time is one of the most sensitive and challenging aspects of coaching, often leading to misunderstandings, frustration, and conflict between coaches and players.

Addressing this issue transparently and constructively is crucial for maintaining team morale and fostering a positive team environment.

This season, using myPerforma's Mindset Performance Indicators (MPIs) can help bridge the communication gap, offering a structured way to discuss playing time based on performance and perception.

Understanding Mindset Performance Indicators (MPIs)

MPIs are post-game reviews completed by athletes after each game, allowing them to reflect on their performance and mindset. These reviews provide valuable insights into how athletes perceive their contributions and performance levels. Coaches, in turn, can compare these self-assessments with their observations, identifying any discrepancies or alignment between the player's and coach's perspectives.

Step-by-Step Guide to Solving Playing Time Issues with myPerforma

1. Set Clear Expectations from the Start

Before the season begins, outline your playing time philosophy and criteria to your team. Explain how MPIs will be used as a tool to evaluate performance and assist in making playing time decisions. Transparency at this stage sets a foundation for trust and understanding.

2. Encourage Honest and Reflective MPI Submissions

After each game, ensure that players complete their MPIs honestly and thoughtfully. Emphasize the importance of self-reflection and how it contributes to their development. The more accurate the feedback, the better the coaching staff can understand each player’s mindset and performance.

3. Regularly Review MPI Data

Consistently analyze MPI data to identify trends and patterns in player performance and perception. This ongoing review helps coaches stay informed about how players view their contributions and where discrepancies might exist.

4. Hold Individual Meetings to Discuss Playing Time

Use MPI data as a basis for one-on-one meetings with players. During these meetings:

• Compare Perceptions: Discuss any differences between the player’s self-assessment and the coach’s observations. This can help players understand the reasoning behind playing time decisions.
• Highlight Strengths and Areas for Improvement: Provide specific feedback based on MPI data, helping players see where they excel and where they need to improve.
• Set Goals: Work with players to set achievable goals and action plans for increasing their playing time. This demonstrates a commitment to their development and gives them a clear path to follow.

5. Foster Open Communication

Encourage players to ask questions and express their feelings about playing time during these meetings. By fostering an open dialogue, coaches can address concerns directly and reduce misunderstandings. Players who feel heard and understood are more likely to respond positively to feedback and work harder to earn playing time.

6. Reiterate the Team Concept

Remind players that playing time decisions are made with the team’s best interests in mind. Use MPI discussions to reinforce the idea that every player has a role, whether starting or coming off the bench, and that their contributions are valued.

Benefits of Using myPerforma to Address Playing Time Issues

Enhanced Understanding

MPIs provide a clear picture of how players view their performances, helping coaches understand their mindset and address any misconceptions.

Objective Feedback

Using MPIs adds an element of objectivity to playing time discussions. Players can see that decisions are based on concrete data rather than subjective opinions.

Improved Communication

Regular MPI reviews and one-on-one meetings foster better communication between coaches and players, reducing the likelihood of conflicts and misunderstandings.

Player Development

By providing specific feedback and setting goals based on MPI data, coaches can help players improve their skills and increase their chances of earning more playing time.

Team Cohesion

Transparent and constructive discussions about playing time contribute to a more cohesive team environment, where players understand and support each other’s roles.

Managing playing time is never easy, but myPerforma’s Mindset Performance Indicators can significantly simplify the process. By leveraging MPI data, coaches can communicate more effectively, provide objective feedback, and help players understand and accept their roles within the team. This season, make the most of myPerforma to enhance your coaching strategy and create a positive, transparent, and performance-driven team culture.