Coaching Craft – Chapter 9 – Athlete Decision Making

Chapter nine details how athlete's make decisions on the field, and the range of factors that go into harnessing optimal athlete decision making.

Why formations still exist

I know what you're thinking: "formations don't exist anymore!" That's what everyone says these days, isn't it? We've become so smart about the way we think about football and too evolved from the ways cavemen used to play, that formations are now only for foosball and cheerleading pyramids. But here I am to suggest, and announce my candidacy for president on the "formations still exist" train. Formations still exist.

How athletes can improve their scanning and perceptions of BOTS

The number one aspect that separates elite players from amateur is the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Elite athletes are better able to process information, and frequently take in more information when scanning their surroundings, even if scanning for shorter periods of time. But scanning, information processing and attention to detail are all skills that can be worked upon by athletes at any level, in any sport.

Understanding BOTS & how to scan for quicker, correct decisions

Scanning goes far beyond what must coaches will shout out: "check your shoulder!". It needs to encompass a constant process of neck and eye movement, assessing ball, opposition, teammates and space.

Understanding the five corner model for player development & performance

As coaches, we must recognize that players have an array of qualities that make them unique on the pitch. We must also recognize that each of these unique pillars need to be paid attention to with dedicated attention and care.

Luciano Spalletti – Napoli – Tactical Analysis (2022-23)

Luciano Spalletti has worked wonders since arriving to the scene of Naples in 2021. The Italian manager helped Napoli to a third-place finish last season, and now prepares to lead the closing stages of their title charge in 2023. With some supremely smart acquisitions in the summer working their magic, Gli Azzurri currently sit ten points clear atop the table, and have more than double the points of Serie A's historical dominator - Juventus. If Spalletti can continue to get his tactics right and maintain the remarkably positive culture he's built since arriving, Napoli will walk away with the title this year. So with that, here is our analysis of the club from Naples so far in 2022-23.

Improving your tactical understanding as a player

Historically, we've tailored our content toward coaches and fans of the beautiful game, attempting to use our content for practical application in the game. But more and more we find ourselves interacting with players wanting to take their tactical understanding to the next level. On the one hand, it's amazing to see players taking initiative, and recognizing the intertwined nature of the tactical side to superiority in all other "corners" of the game. But simultaneously, this points to somewhat of a hole in coaching practice and common dogmas, where the technical and physical components are still prioritized, without enough regard for the tactical elements of football. Here is how to improve your tactical understanding as a player.