|
Problems, comments or questions about this site? Please email us at webmaster (at) coachjerry (dot) com |
Shy Young Athletes An interesting psychological question :
|
|
|
|
| Answer: You ask a
very interesting question and although the question is not complex, I'm
afraid the answer is not simple or straight forward. I am not an expert in
child psychology so I'm not sure that I am really qualified to answer it
but I will share some thoughts on the matter from my perspective as a
youth coach.
I try to teach the skills and fundamentals of the sport to each player - whether a child is timid or aggressive, talented or less talented, fast or slow, male or female - taking into account the physical and emotional traits that make the child a unique individual. Because of these differences in children, different techniques and approaches are needed to help each of them develop new skills - one approach isn't appropriate for all kids. Children learn in different ways and at different rates. Coaches need to understand that and should not expect uniform performance or identical reaction, responses or behavior from all the players. It is my experience that many less aggressive kids are often shy or reserved in new situations and become more comfortable as they learn and adapt to the strange and new situations. As children develop new skills, they gain confidence become less afraid or less threatened and usually are less "laid back". I don't not mean to say that they become more aggressive but with increased self-confidence they may appear more outgoing. I do not believe that athletes need to be aggressive by nature to be successful. Aggressive behavior may at times be a detriment. Determination, dedication and commitment are more typically the ingredients for success in any endeavor. Certainly less aggressive players can be taught to play with confidence, even excel and have an enjoyable and positive sports experience, which should be the ultimate objective in youth sports. Many top athletes were shy as youngsters. Tennis star Pete Sampras, for example, was and still is considered to be quite reserved - even shy - but still developed into a superb and extremely competitive world class athlete. Dedication, determination and commitment, not aggression, made him the player he is. I would not attempt to explain why some children are shy and reserved and others are outgoing and aggressive. Regardless of the reason, they all deserve a caring coach who will treat them with respect and work with them as the individuals that they are. I don't believe it is necessary or appropriate for a coach to try to change the personality of a young player although some coaches try. Instead, the coach should teach skills in a way that considers the attributes and characteristics of the individual player. The coach should help the player set and obtain achievable goals and should encourage the player to always try to do his or her very best. |
