| Not long ago I was visiting with the Ghanaian National Soccer coach from Amsterdam at their national training center. Upon learning I was a sport psychology consultant he immediately began to express his frustration at the team unwillingness to use "drills" and typical conditioning programs such as wind sprints during practices. He reported that all they wanted to do was "play" soccer. He admitted that the level of "play" during practice sessions was of the highest intensity. Most athletes literally would play to exhaustion. Upon questioning, the coach indicated that they would listen to his input regarding positioning and strategies, but drills..."they are not helping us."
The paradox in Western society is that early in childhood we teach children to "play"... to have fun... to not worry about the score... to focus on fundamentals, but not too much least participants not enjoy the experience. Perhaps one of the most poignant experiences illustrating this point was when I returned to my apartment after working on my dissertation all day to find my 12 year old son "playing" touch football with probably 15 other 6-10 year olds. Being the oldest he, of course, was playing quarterback for both teams. Excitedly I jogged over to the sideline (the tree and the buses) hoping to be recognized and invited to "play." Not being immediately recognized I yelled, "what's the score you guys?" To my embarrassment, the game came to an immediate halt and all 10,000 eyes were upon me. "Oops," I thought. The silent staring went on for hours (six seconds), then my son with total disdain... "Dad!...we were just playing..."
Later, during early adolescents and post pubescence, participants (now referred to as athletes) are encouraged to lay aside the "play," the joy, and focus on the "work," outcome, preparation, execution, techniques. The result? Often high anxiety, lowered confidence levels, and frustration for both coaches and athletes. Yet at the highest level of athletics, such as world class and professional athletes, coaches often encourage participants to "just play your game," and "have some fun."
The latest thinking by some Western coaches is that maybe playing and drilling less might have some merit. The Ghanaian soccer team (under 18) have consistently been one of the top teams in the world. We all know of great practicers, but when it comes to competition...well they are good during practice. How many would be golfers are great on the range, but put the money down and give them a 198 yard shot out of a sand trap over water to win the PGA Championship...well...they are good on the range.
Maybe we should "play" more and drill less.
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