Reflecting to Improve
Coaching Corner: Reflecting to Improve
As coaches, we know that the real progress in player development comes not only from what happens during a session, but also from how we reflect on it afterwards. Taking time to review what worked well, what could be improved, and how the session supported player growth is a vital part of effective coaching.
Coach Reflection Sheet – Single Session
To support this process, here is a Coach Reflection Sheet designed to help you evaluate each session in terms of planning, delivery, and player development. It is a straightforward but valuable tool to ensure that every training or match contributes meaningfully to our players’ progress.
Why use it?
- Links to Individual Development Plans (IDPs): Each session should connect back to players’ personal goals across the season, whether those are technical, tactical, physical, or psycho-social.
- Built on the 4-Corner Approach: The reflection questions are structured around the four key pillars of development—Technical, Tactical, Physical, and Psycho-Social—encouraging a balanced, player-centred review.
- Practical and Flexible: You can print copies for use after training or matches or simply use it as a personal prompt for your own review and planning.
- Self-Rating Included: A simple coach self-assessment helps track your own development and identify areas for growth.
Looking Ahead
This is one of the steps we plan to introduce a more reflective coaching culture within the club. We have already shared a Player Reflection Sheet for players. These will bring together perspectives from players, coaches, and the club executive to provide a fuller picture of progress and development across the year.
How to Use the Reflection Sheet
- Keep a few printed copies in your coaching bag and complete one after training or a match when it feels appropriate.
- Use it as a prompt for short personal reflection — jot down quick notes on what worked well and what could be improved.
- Revisit your reflections before planning the next session to ensure continuity and alignment with players’ Individual Development Plans (IDPs).
- Add your own short notes at the bottom to capture key learning points or reminders for future sessions.
Why It Makes a Difference
Reflection is what turns coaching activity into real learning. By using the sheet, coaches are supported to:
- Recognise and celebrate what went well in their planning and delivery.
- Identify areas where they can improve or adapt.
- Stay focused on supporting players’ technical, tactical, physical, and social development.
Over time, this habit develops more than just coaching skills. It helps build confident, adaptable mentors who understand the value of continuous learning, teamwork, and self-improvement.
Building a Culture of Reflection
If we make reflection a regular part of our coaching practice, we not only improve as individual coaches but also strengthen the collective standards across the club. A reflective coaching culture ensures that players benefit from more consistent, thoughtful, and development-focused sessions.
Thank you for the commitment and energy you bring to supporting our players every week.
Thanks,
Brian
Coaching Officer
