As a follow on from the article last month, we wanted to explore what does equity mean in your coaching and instructing of sessions?
The pandemic has heightened some further challenges that people face in effectively engaging with group sessions. Learning needs and the different influences on people’s lives are always varied and complex. Over the last ten years, coaching and instructing has moved to become more player centred to maximise enjoyment, potential and decision making.
Particularly with beginners, they clearly need to learn some basic fundamentals of the game whilst also being proficient in riding and managing the horse. Checking for learning and understanding is a key element to coaching but what are the barriers that players may have? They generally fall into a number of grouped elements:
- Cost – this may determine the players engagement with the sport.
- Other commitments – an enthusiasm for the game maybe prohibited because of other lifestyle commitments such as family and work.
- Transport – getting to and from sessions maybe prohibitive due to available transport
- Cultural perception – the player may feel the sport is not for them or they do not have a role model of ‘someone like them’ who takes part. This maybe sub-conscious rather than overt.
- Coach behaviours – does the coach behave in a way that might be perceived as indirectly dissimilar by language or behaviour?
We have seen many social changes in the last year. People are now, it would appear, more sensitive to the “service” they receive.
So what can the coach do? Research by UK coaching indicated that coaches should:
- Treat everyone as an individual and coach the person ‘in front of you’ based on their motivations, needs and wants.
- Be aware of language and terminology used – ensuring this is appropriate and does not potentially offend.
- Take time to ensure players have learnt something new or improved.
- Use a variety of coaching methodologies/techniques – for example, using ‘tell, show and ask’ as a method of delivery.
By adopting these practices, this will lead to equitable coaching practice. If you would like to be further upskilled in this area, we are pleased to share details of the next UK Coaching Equality in Sport and Physical Activity workshop. This is a 2 hour virtual classroom were learners will be able to:
- have a better understanding of what an equitable approach is and how it can benefit them, their club, the participants and sport
- understand how to challenge, connect, and change by exploring their own knowledge and experiences.
- build confidence into their coaching practices by understanding the importance of using correct language and terminologies
- know how to create new opportunities for their participants, the club and local communities
This takes place on Wednesday 9th June, 6.30-8.30pm at a cost of £25 per person. Further details can be found by our booking pages (this will be available from tomorrow).