‘Talking Tactically’

with Lachlan Tighe..... 

(a weekly edition, commenced 12/9/2001, of thoughts, observations and commentaries on developments for bowls coaching and competition)

‘ Commitment…requires added skills’   

(edition 126  - 2004 of thoughts & observations on lawn bowls)

This web column is titled ‘Tactically Talking’ though in fact it is a free range of views and approaches.

One thing I notice within bowls is an apparent unwillingness to make that extra commitment to excel.  Now I know money and time are constraints, and many bowlers compete to earn those extra dollars.

However I am encouraging better use of (available time) to train, to reflect on performances, to know as bowlers your level of skill(s).

For instance I came across an old mental skills record we used in elite squash (so that dates it pre 1990s as I finished my elite involvement in early 1990) and I cannot recall hearing of many bowlers recording this form of record we took for granted in elite squash:

RECORDING SKILLS AND SUCCESS

(assumption is that successful performers in any sport rate highly to these questions / statements)

Identify the areas of performance that need more work and have a plan of action to improve these areas

Develop the will at practice to perform at your best

Expose your mental and emotional skill in strenuous training and simulated competition

Develop self confidence by achieving difficult objectives / tasks and set new ‘pb’ measures

Difficult tasks require commitment, perseverance

Met regularly with my coach to record and assess progress and preparation for events

Am conscious in being positive in verbal and bodily language

Commit to time with my coach to experiment with various approaches

Chose a role model in any sport who has an envious approach to training, attitude, recording, performance, personal presentation

Constantly look to learn by seminars, workshops, discussion, reading and listening

Health fitness and diet are monitored as complementary facets of skill

Value squad training and team mates

Practice taking leadership roles, volunteering to attempt drills and contributing to our success

Would be viewed as an example for others to follow

Many good bowlers are household names in our various geographical locations due to the local media giving the players due prominence.

Question ? Can you say they are the best role models for aspiring bowlers if you had to apply the above statements to them.

If the answer is a no, lets find the role models who we can all learn the most over the future.

Lachlan Tighe

ATTITUDE: ALL ABOUT PRACTISING HABITS