Session Planning
Session plans are created by the lead/head coach as a tool to ensure each training runs as smooth and as efficient as possible. A session plan consists of each stage of the the training and can include drawings and diagrams to use as guidance and a reminder during the session.
Ideally, the session plan should fit onto one page, so that it is easy to use during your training. Using digital platforms is a great way to create, store and share session plans. Canva, Google Jamboard and Microsoft Office tools are just a few examples of great platforms that are easy to make plans.
Below is a template and an example of a Coach Corner Session Plan:
Why is a session plan important?
Session plans help to remind the lead coach and assistant coaches about the main activities and coaching points for the days training.
In certain situations, the lead coach may not be present at the training so the session plan can be sent to the assistant coaches or cover coaches.
After sessions have been completed, the plans can be stored as a record of what has been completed and they can also be useful to revisit in the future when the same topic needs more work or when it is time to be repeated.
Creating a session plan.
Usually session plan themes are taken from the teams season plan. At the start of the season, the lead coach should create a season plan that covers all the main themes that will be coached throughout the season.
Try to tailor the session to age of the group. For younger ages, gamification can create a fun environment to help motivate and engage the players.
Tips.
Less is more.
Sometimes, coaches can get carried away and they like to fill their session plan with many ideas and coaching points. This can backfire and cause players to get confused and lose focus on what the main tasks are.
For junior players under the age of 12 years old, it is challenging to focus on many coaching points at the same time. It is important for coaches to pick one main session theme, followed by 2 to 3 sub themes to help develop understanding of the main theme.