Biggest Obstacle to Player Development
I had the pleasure of speaking at the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Centennial Convention this month. My topic was, you guessed it, player development. There was a common question I was asked at the convention. The question was, “What’s the biggest obstacle to a player development program?”. The question was asked so much, I decided to write a blog.
What is the biggest obstacle to player development?
The answer: support.
In my experience and what I’ve seen in other player development programs is the greatest impact happens when there is support. Support for the player development program/plan and support for the professional(s) who are leading the department.
So what does support look like? Who must support player development?
Support for a player development can look like many things, but I believe it comes down to these three things:
1. Confirmed responsibilities
As I’ve written in blogs before, the player development position is one of the newer college football support staff positions. With this understanding the director of player development will find themselves handling or helping with many different things. Duties assigned are a part of everyone’s responsibilities in the world. What I am talking about is ensuring that the director will have responsibilities in which they can actually develop the student-athletes. The player development position is one that can have an immense impact on a program. Making sure the responsibilities given to directors allow for their ability to develop is crucial to that impact.
2. Empowerment
The player development department will have an opportunity to enhance the lives of the student-athletes in the program. Helping the student-athletes understand the role of player development can engage their interest. When staff understands the role of player development and can bring this to the players in the program it helps with credibility.
3. Scheduling
Creating time in the schedule for player development is necessary for impacting lives. The director can plan programming based off of the time allotted to them. This time allows for them to strategically choose how they will impact the student-athletes.
Who must support a player development program for it to be effective:
Head Coach
Staff
Administration
The support of these three groups provide for a flourishing and effective player development program. When the directors or department can tangibly feel and see the support the impact can be monumental.
Hope you enjoyed the blog. For more blogs and information on player development, click this link: https://www.btfprogram.com/playerdevelopment-blog