I was reminded by this in the aftermath of the Wisconsin loss to Syracuse when Wisconsin failed to score in the last possession. Not only did they fail to score, but they really did not get a great shot. The next day the Madison paper had a reporter pointing out Wisconsin still had a time out and one of their best players (Berggren) was at the scorer's table waiting to get in.
I don't think fans understand when a last second play does not work, the coach is going to question the choice also. I remember a game we lost where we ran a set play to get the ball to the basket, we did, the player was fouled, and the player missed the free throws. We lost. Was my choice of the play bad? We lost. If I had know we would get the ball to the basket but the player would have missed the free throws- I would not have drawn up the play.
The week before Bo Ryan chose not to take a time out. Wisconsin went down and scored. I would argue his decision was not better a week ago and bad this week. The execution of his decision was good one week and the execution was bad the next week.
Unlike fans, the coach has to make the decision before they know the outcome. Fans can watch, see what happens and then make their decision.
What fans sometimes fail to realize there are MANY right choices. Sometimes fans think at the end of a game there is only one correct strategy. Many coaches have won taking a time out to set up a last second play. Many coaches have lost taking a time out. And the same is true of not taking a time out.
Years ago I remember hearing a coach playing Quincy was asked why he did not take a time out late in the game when they were going for a last shot. The coach replied,"I was going to take a time out but I looked down at the other bench. If I took a time out, my players were going to spend a minute with me, and the other team was going to get to spend a minute with Jerry Leggett. I thought a time out would be to the other team's advantage."
See fans, there can be a lot more involved in coaching strategy than you even realize.
I will live with Bo Ryan's decision for practice, for games, and for the last minute-- Bo Knows Basketball.
"Coach, Why Didn't You? The Power of Feedback and Accountability in Coaching"
Coaching is a dynamic and multifaceted practice that extends far beyond teaching skills and strategies. Effective coaching involves a delicate balance of providing guidance, motivation, and, crucially, feedback. One of the most powerful questions a coach can ask is, "Why didn't you?" This seemingly simple inquiry holds immense potential for growth and improvement. In this article, we will explore the significance of "Why didn't you?" in coaching, its impact on performance, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of this coaching technique.
The Essence of "Why Didn't You?" in Coaching
"Coach, Why Didn't You?" is a probing question that encourages athletes, clients, or individuals to reflect on their actions, decisions, and outcomes. Rather than imposing judgment or criticism, it opens the door to self-examination and accountability. Here's why this question is so powerful in coaching:
1. Promoting Self-Reflection: "Why Didn't You?" prompts individuals to analyze their actions and decisions critically. This self-awareness is the cornerstone of personal growth and development.
2. Fostering Accountability: The question places responsibility squarely on the individual's shoulders, encouraging them to take ownership of their choices and outcomes.
3. Encouraging Problem-Solving: Instead of offering solutions outright, coaches allow individuals to explore potential solutions themselves, promoting autonomy and decision-making skills.
4. Identifying Patterns: Repeatedly asking "Why Didn't You?" can help individuals identify patterns of behavior or decision-making, allowing them to make conscious changes.
5. Enhancing Communication: The question fosters open and honest communication between coaches and individuals, creating a supportive environment for growth.
Application of "Why Didn't You?" in Coaching
The power of "Why Didn't You?" lies in its adaptability across various coaching contexts, from sports coaching to life coaching and professional development. Here are some scenarios where this question can be effectively applied:
1. Sports Coaching: In sports, coaches can use "Why Didn't You?" to help athletes analyze their performance, decision-making during a game, or training regimen.
2. Life Coaching: Life coaches use this question to assist clients in examining their choices, values, and goals, ultimately guiding them toward personal fulfillment.
3. Leadership Development: In a professional setting, leadership coaches employ "Why Didn't You?" to encourage leaders to reflect on their decisions, communication style, and team dynamics.
4. Relationship Coaching: Relationship coaches may use this question to facilitate open conversations between couples or individuals seeking to improve their relationships.
5. Personal Development: Individuals pursuing personal development can employ "Why Didn't You?" as a self-coaching tool for self-improvement and decision-making.
The Impact of "Why Didn't You?" on Performance
The application of "Why Didn't You?" in coaching can have a profound impact on performance and personal growth:
1. Increased Accountability: By encouraging individuals to take ownership of their actions and decisions, this question promotes a sense of accountability, leading to more responsible behavior.
2. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: The question challenges individuals to identify solutions and strategies for improvement, fostering problem-solving skills and creativity.
3. Greater Self-Awareness: Self-reflection through "Why Didn't You?" facilitates self-awareness, allowing individuals to recognize strengths and weaknesses and make informed choices.
4. Improved Decision-Making: When individuals examine their choices and actions, they can make more informed and deliberate decisions in the future.
5. Strengthened Relationships: In relationship coaching, the question can lead to more open and honest communication, deepening connections and resolving conflicts.
FAQs About "Why Didn't You?" in Coaching
Let's address some frequently asked questions about using "Why Didn't You?" in coaching:
1. Is "Why Didn't You?" always an appropriate question to ask in coaching?
While it can be a powerful tool, the appropriateness of the question depends on the individual's readiness and the coaching context. Coaches should exercise judgment and sensitivity when using it.
2. How can coaches ensure that "Why Didn't You?" is constructive rather than critical?
Coaches should frame the question in a non-judgmental and supportive manner, emphasizing its purpose as a tool for self-reflection and growth.
3. Are there situations where "Why Didn't You?" may not be effective in coaching?
In some cases, individuals may be too emotionally charged or not ready for self-reflection. In such situations, coaches may need to use alternative coaching techniques or postpone the question.
4. Can individuals use "Why Didn't You?" as a self-coaching tool?
Absolutely. Individuals can adopt self-coaching practices using "Why Didn't You?" to facilitate self-reflection, self-improvement, and goal setting.
5. How can coaches strike a balance between accountability and support when using this question?
Coaches should combine "Why Didn't You?" with empathetic listening, constructive feedback, and encouragement to ensure a balanced and supportive coaching approach.
"Coach, Why Didn't You?" is a deceptively simple yet remarkably powerful question in coaching. It empowers individuals to engage in self-reflection, take ownership of their choices, and work toward personal growth and improvement. Whether in sports, life, leadership, or relationships, this question encourages accountability, problem-solving, and self-awareness. Coaches who master the art of asking "Why Didn't You?" create an environment where individuals can not only reach their potential but also become more self-reliant, resilient, and capable of making informed decisions. In the hands of a skilled coach, this question can be a catalyst for transformation and success.
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