A New Approach to Coaching by: Dr. J. N. Vickers
Author's Preface
This booklet describes a new approach to coaching called decision training (DT). During DT, the coach designs daily practices so that the perceptual, attention, problem solving and other cognitive skills needed to perform at the highest level are developed at the same time as the physiological and biomechanical and psychological aspects of the sport.
In order to perform at the highest level, the athlete needs to train in an environment where all three components are brought together in a scientifically sound ways.
Since 1994, DT has been an integral part of the preparation of coaches at the National Coaching Institute (NCI), Calgary. Over 70 NCI coaches and 30 Master coaches have used DT in over 15 different sports. Many have refined it to where it is today. A special thanks is extended to John Bales, the first director of the NCI-Calgary and now President of the Coaching Association of Canada and to Mary Ann Reeves, the current Director. Both have been instrumental in supporting my teaching and research in DT and have also contributed to the evolution of many of the ideas contained here. A special thanks is extended to Jacques Thibault and the many coaches who have contributed their insights and innovations to DT. Thanks also to Dale Henwood for his continued support as President of the National Sport Centre-Calgary. I have been fortunate to be part of the dynamic environment that is the National Sport Centre Calgary - where the motto "Personal Best, Podium and Beyond" is important as it values the whole athlete and coach. DT benefits the athlete and coach first during the training process, second as they compete and lastly, in their future lives.
This booklet has been commissioned by the Coaches Association of British Columbia (CABC). It is suited for all coaches, whether working with elite athletes or novices. It is especially important that athletes be aware of what DT has to offer. It's message is also important reading for parents, as well as for all those involved in coaching leadership. I would like to thank Gordon May, Director of the CABC, for his leadership and support of this project.
This booklet is available throught the FHBC Office. Please call 604 730 7220 for more details.