Replace public comparison with personal evidence
Skip to content
Learning hub · CoachesCoaches · Confidence · Tip · 4 min to use
A place to belong, on and off the court. Explore After Hours Hoops
Replace Public Comparison with Personal Evidence
Comparing athletes can make one person's progress disappear behind another person's performance. Describe what changed in an athlete's own attempts. Specific evidence gives them something they can repeat without needing to be the best in the room.
When to use it
Use when giving individual feedback or celebrating improvement at the end of practice.
Put It into Practice
- Recall one earlier attempt and identify a visible change, such as scanning before receiving or returning to defence after a turnover.
- Describe that change without ranking teammates. Ask the athlete what helped them make it, and give them time to answer in their own words.
- Agree on one thing to repeat during the next activity. Revisit it later so praise connects to continued learning rather than a passing compliment.
What It Can Look Like
Instead of 'You are our best passer,' say, 'You checked the defender before those last two passes; what helped you see the lane?'
Your notes stay on this page. They are not saved or sent. Print before leaving to keep a copy.
Take it with you: Make progress something an athlete can recognise and influence.