Linking athlete-centred coaching, game-centred approaches and developing thinking players to in-game tactical decision-making

This chapter considers how coaches can help athletes become better in-game tactical decision-makers. It describes the importance of creating an environment where athletes are empowered to be active participants in their coaching and learning experience – a fundamental principle of Athlete-Centred Coaching (ACC). It also addresses the importance of creating simplified in-game or in-practice learning situations, sometimes called Game-Centred Approaches (GCA). These activities are designed to help athletes develop an understanding of the choices available to them in any given situation and to give them opportunities to practise decision-making.