How to give your players ownership
- The Boot Room
- 05 July 2022
We explore what ownership is, why it matters and how to provide it to your players.
THEORY
Ownership is all about including your players – giving them a voice and choice.
Having a say and being allowed to make decisions is empowering. It helps players connect with the task they’re facing, rather than just being told what to do.
Ownership enables teams to take control of their learning. It puts them at the centre of your environment and encourages them to shape the experience you provide.
EXAMPLE
Want to see how this looks in practice? Watch the video below.
PRACTICE
Thinking of giving your players more ownership? Here are some top tips.
1. Provide a positive environment
If players feel safe and happy, that’s going to benefit everyone. Having a positive atmosphere at training and on matchdays will help players to speak up and offer their opinions. When it comes to ownership, this is a must.
2. Consider their stage of development
Now, depending on the age and experience of your team, ownership will look very different.
If you’re coaching primary-aged kids or players who aren’t used to having much control, start small. Allow them to pick teams, come up with a rule change or select the next activity.
If players are older or used to taking the lead, try increasing their level of ownership. For instance, they could help with practice design, assess what they need to work on, set their own learning objectives or decide how to play on matchday.
3. Listen, learn and apply
It’s frustrating when you don’t feel heard.
To avoid this with your players, listen to their opinions and value their contributions. Use this information to learn about your team – and individuals too. Then, put your players’ decisions into practice (or let them do it instead).
Remember: ownership is a great way to enhance enjoyment and learning. Whether your team are planning the next activity or deciding how to rotate positions during a game, seeing their ideas in action will encourage players to get involved.
