By Graham Ramsay
The ability to “talk the game” is vital if you consider yourself a good player. Positive talk helps encourage a teammate through a poor period, motivates teammates to greater efforts, and, most importantly, gives information to each other. Good teams are comprised of players who demand a lot from one another and are only interested in playing at the top of their ability.
Are you a “team-talker” or just a recreational player who watches a game like a neutral fan with no opinion or feeling about the state of play? There is a great difference between these two types of players. If you are a “team-talker,” your team will be a better one for your efforts, especially if you can organize, encourage, and demand excellence. As Gary Linekar, the former England captain once stated, “the best teams have eleven captains, not one!” Such teams are full of “team-talkers.” They want to play brilliantly and win at the same time – a great combination.
Quality talk and calling promotes better play, whereas ranting and screaming often has the reverse effect. The difference between a pass and a kick is a thought. The same differentiation applies between “team-talk” and wild shouting. The act of going verbally berserk is like throwing sand in the gas tank of a car, the probable effect is that of ruining the “team engine.” Remember, the object of playing is to get first class performance from the whole team. Often, this will hinge upon the success of the weakest link. This player (or group of players) needs positive evaluative feedback to get them back on track. The old adage of “praise publicly, constructively criticize privately” should be taken to heart by all coaches and teammates.
How do you become a “team-talker”? Here are some famous soccer sayings that give vital clues to helping you become a better player and help your teammates win without ever touching the ball.
“Pass the Ball, Give a Call” – Get in the routine of giving a call as you pass the ball.
“Man-on”; “Time”; “Turn”; and “Let it Run”
Your call becomes you’re your teammates EYES! As your teammate receives the ball, their eyes often drop down onto the ball. For them, it’s like the lights going out in a room, as they can no longer see game pictures (i.e. player movements, open spaces, or the best passing options). Your call, literally, becomes their eyes.
Graham Ramsay © 2003
MSYSA, Director of Education and Coaching
Ph: 301.881.1603
Fx: 301.231.5261