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The Mike Quirke Podcast

Skill Development Unlocked: A Conversation with Dr. Ed Coughlan

Feb 21, 2025
Join Dr. Ed Coughlan, an expert in skill acquisition, as he dives into the nuances of coaching and skill development. He emphasizes the need for creating optimal environments that foster athletes' performance under pressure, moving beyond traditional drills. Key topics include enhancing decision-making through game-based coaching, promoting creativity in youth sports, and the importance of context in skill training. Dr. Coughlan also highlights how interactive coaching can empower young athletes, making learning both engaging and effective.
01:04:30

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Effective skill development in sports requires practicing in game-like scenarios that emphasize decision-making under pressure.
  • Coaches should foster a self-directed learning environment, allowing young athletes to explore skills independently to enhance creativity.

Deep dives

Understanding Skill in Sports

Skill in sports is defined as the ability to execute techniques within a specific context, particularly under pressure. This goes beyond merely performing techniques in isolation, as real skill is demonstrated when athletes must adapt their actions amidst opponents and time constraints. For instance, the ability to kick a football accurately while being tackled is a testament to true skill as it encompasses executing techniques during high-stakes situations. Recognizing this distinction can significantly enhance training practices, ensuring that athletes develop skills relevant to actual game scenarios.

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