I’m speaking with Mark Bennett MBE in this episode. Mark is founder of Performance Development Systems (PDS) - a robust set of principles that facilitate world class learning and performance cultures and environments. PDS was designed for coaches, managers and teachers to better understand themselves and learn how to influence and get the best out of the people around them. Before establishing PDS, Mark was a British Commando and senior instructor within the Army Physical Training Corps. 

PDS is being used in 30 different sports from grassroots to the Olympics and professional teams as well as in schools helping disengaged children by supporting the teachers and mentors. 

We speak in detail about PDS and look at examples of Mark implementing it in different sporting environments. Specifically, we speak about coaches utilising their players to help them grow; helping players self-manage; building confidence in players; coaches being aware of their own coaching style - why they coach the way they do; accountability; being adaptable in the moment and the importance of reflection and review.