Four steps for dealing with performance errors
What are performance errors?
Performance errors are recurring errors made during matches by
players who can perform the skill perfectly well in training.
Three common causes of performance
errors
1. Anxiety
All players experience anxiety before performing. For many, this
enhances their performance by increasing the production of
adrenaline. However, in some individuals, it causes them to tense up
and has a negative effect.
Players might experience increased anxiety during matches when
coaches and parents shout too many negative comments from the touch
line.
2. Tactical naivety
A player might have all the skills, but consistently makes poor
decisions when under pressure on the pitch.
3. Tiredness
This is common in players who are dehydrated or haven’t eaten or
slept properly before matches. Tiredness affects the decision making
processes and also the body’s physical ability.
Four steps for dealing with performance
errors
Speak to the player and use the following four-point process to help
them understand and overcome their performance errors.
1. Acknowledge the error
The player needs to realise they are making errors during matches
that, given their skill level, should be avoidable. Discuss how they
can perform the skills well and how you both need to find out what
is causing the match day errors.
2. Review the errors
Work with them to determine how and why the errors occur. Do they
get nervous before matches? Are they eating and drinking properly
during the build up to matches?
3. Make a plan
Based on their responses, you can put together a plan with the
player to make the necessary corrections for the future.
4. Execute the plan
Provide the player with support to execute their personal action
plan before the next match. Ensure the player is realistic and
doesn’t expect the errors to disappear instantly. They need to
understand it is a long-term process and might take many weeks.
