Knowing Better Isn’t the Same as Coaching Better

Most coaches I work with already know what good practice should look like.

That’s not the issue.

The issue is translating ideas into environments, under pressure, with real players.

That gap is where most coaching stalls.

3 Coaching Ideas

1. Practice design fails when it stays theoretical​
   Ideas don’t transfer unless they become constraints, rules, and spaces.
2. Drills persist because they feel safe​
   They reduce uncertainty — for the coach.
3. The hardest part of practice design is letting go of control​
   Because learning doesn’t look tidy while it’s happening.

2 Insights from Others

• “Coaches default to tradition under pressure.”​
  — Stodter & Cushion (paraphrased)
• “Learning is non-linear, even when plans aren’t.”​
  — Practitioner insight

1 Question to Reflect On

Where do you simplify practice to feel confident — rather than to support learning?

This tension is exactly why Practice Design Month exists.

Not to judge.
To support the shift.

Practice Design of The Week: Multiball of Madness

“The game is always changing. So should you.”

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Two balls, two trajectories, two rhythms. Players must stay aware, adapt their movement, and respond to what the point becomes.