In soccer, players rely on experience and past lessons to make decisions on the field. These experiences form references, which guide players in responding to situations during a game. Reference-based coaching focuses on presenting relevant lessons to players at the right time in their development and helping them build a foundation of knowledge (reference library) that informs their decision-making. This approach goes beyond simple instruction, it encourages players to think critically and solve soccer problems. In this article, we explore 7 essential concepts of reference-based coaching, highlighting how this method can create insightful and independent soccer players.
What Is Reference-Based Coaching?
Reference Coaching creates a learning environment where players develop a library of experiences, or references, to guide their actions on the field. Reference Coaching uses a number of strategies to help players consciously, or unconsciously, build their playing abilities.
1. Leveraging Everyday Experiences
Players accumulate references through their experiences in practice and games. These references help them solve in-game problems by drawing on past knowledge. As players build their reference library, they become more adaptable and capable of handling various scenarios. Just as we draw upon everyday experiences to solve problems in life, soccer players use their past game experiences as references to make decisions on the field. Think of the references of Breaking The Line. The youngest of players can see in their mind’s-eye, and imaginary line between two other players, then they can position themselves on the opposite side of that line to the ball.
As coaches we take these images or analogies and we bring them into the development of players. By connecting age-appropriate real-life reference with soccer gameplay, players can better understand and respond to game situations effectively.
2. Progressive Learning
Learning in soccer is a progressive journey. Coaches must allow players the time to accumulate references and deepen their understanding of the game gradually. This step-by-step approach ensures players have a solid foundation before advancing to more complex concepts.
3. Creating an EPIC Environment
EPIC is more than just a word—it’s a philosophy that forms the foundation of effective coaching. An EPIC environment is one where players feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from their experiences. It’s an environment that is patient in development, promotes independence (autonomy), and is consistent with instruction. The EPIC environment works well for both players and coaches.
4. Understanding References
References in soccer coaching are objective concepts or ideas that guide a player’s decision-making process on the field. they are building blocks. Unlike principles like width, depth, mobility or balance as examples, references are easily imaged and context-specific, helping players recognize patterns and make informed choices during gameplay.
5. Developing Tactical and Technical References
Tactical references focus on decision-making, while technical references contribute to execution. Coaches must prioritize developing references at the top of the hierarchy, such as communication, decision making with game insight, to empower players to think strategically and to guide what it is they are to execute.
6. Embracing Situation Coaching
Situation coaching is a hands-on approach that involves designing activities that constrains the game to bring forth specific competencies. Coaches observe players’ actions, ask questions, and provide guidance based on the reference they’re trying to build, fostering a deeper understanding of the game.
7. Facilitating Player Growth
The ultimate goal of reference-based coaching is to empower players to become reference-thinking players. These players use their reference library to solve problems, reflect on their performance, and continuously improve their skills and decision-making abilities.
8. Avoiding Over-Coaching
Over-coaching can stifle a player’s ability to think independently. Coaches should focus on setting up scenarios or constraints within a game that allow players to discover the best solutions on their own. This approach is known as situation coaching, where players demonstrate their competence through their actions.
9. Embracing the Reference Thinking Player
The ultimate goal of reference-based coaching is to create players who can solve problems on the field without constant instruction (remote control). The reference-thinking player is the epitome of soccer intelligence and relies on a strong ability to reflect and grow. By building a robust library of references, players can navigate the complexities of the game with confidence and adaptability, ultimately leading to success on the field.
At epicsoccercoach.com, we’re committed to helping coaches and players unlock their full potential through reference-based coaching. If you’re interested in learning more about our coaching philosophy and methodology, visit our website for additional resources and training sessions.
For more information and resources on reference-based coaching, visit EpicSoccerCoach.com.
Drawing Insights from World-Class Mentors
Courses like the Football Periodization Mentorship offered by World Football Academy provide valuable insights into reference coaching and player development. By learning from experienced mentors like Raymond Verheijen, coaches can gain a deeper understanding of the coaching process and its impact on player growth.
