The Power of Quiet Observation

You see it all the time – a coach shouting instructions to players from the sideline during a match. Or watch a training session, and there’s the coach, giving the players instructions as they play. And while providing instruction is part of your job as coach, there’s another part that’s equally, if not even more important. Silently observing your players in action.

The previous article, Let the Players Play, talked about the importance of maximizing the active time for players during training sessions. And if your players are getting lots of time on the ball and lots of time in motion, it provides you with plenty of opportunities for observing them while they play. You should use that time by putting yourself into a mode of quiet observation. Turn off the outbound, and tune into the inbound. Study, watch, and concentrate on what your players are doing on the field. What you learn will better inform you of what your players need to improve.

What Should I Be Looking For?

As you observe your players in practice and game situations, here are the areas to put your focus. Absorb, scrutinize, and pose questions to yourself and your co-coaches.

Individual Technique

• Watch how players receive the ball - do they create space for themselves before and after receiving?

• Notice their first touch - does it set them up well for subsequent touches?

• Pay attention to their weaker foot usage - are they avoiding it or working to develop it?

Decision-Making

• Observe their risk assessment - when do they choose to dribble vs. pass?

• Look for pattern recognition - do they anticipate where the ball will go?

• Pay attention to their speed of decision-making - are they playing reactively or proactively?

Movement and Positioning

• Watch their off-ball movement - are they creating options for teammates?

• Notice their spatial awareness - how do they position themselves relative to teammates and opponents?

• Look for their recovery movements - how quickly do they transition between attack and defense?

Game Flow Impact

• Notice who controls the tempo - which players speed up or slow down play appropriately?

• Observe who takes responsibility in key moments - which players want the ball when it matters?

• Pay attention to consistency - who maintains their level of play regardless of the score?

Social Interaction and Leadership

• Notice who communicates during play - how are players delivering and receiving information?

• Observe how players react to mistakes (their own and others) - who offers encouragement?

• Look for problem-solvers - how are players working out tactical challenges during play?

Summary

The art of coaching isn't just about what you say and do – it's about what you see and understand. By taking the time to truly observe your players, you'll gain insights that no coaching manual can provide. These insights will make you a better coach and, more importantly, help your players become better footballers. So next session, step back, watch, and let the game be your teacher too.