‘Talking Tactically’

with Lachlan Tighe..... 

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

‘ …500 days to go’

(edition 117  - 2004 of thoughts & observations on lawn bowls)

I challenge all current and future prospective Australian players, coaches, selectors and other ‘invisible team’ members who have any desire for success to set the clock as of 1/11/2004 where you then have 500 days to go to your biggest dream in your career of bowls.

For 3 years in this column I have titled it as ‘Talking Tactically’ and with the new Commonwealth Games 2006 formats for the three events, 500 days will fly so the development of relevant tactics especially the pairs and triples will be an example of the ‘one percenter’ difference.

Robbie Dobbins and I discussed the absence of personal coaches for the current crop of 28 national squad members. We estimated that 8 of 28 players had a coach. And hopefully those 8 players can benefit from the role their coach has in their development, especially if the coaches can link in with the new national coach.

That is important so as to have each coach understand the necessary tactics the national coach will foster for the players to perform to their best advantage.

The introduction of the grand prix circuit and its accompanying ranking points system creates an opportunity for all elite bowlers to tactically prepare for the 2006 Games over the next eighteen months and to catch the eye of the national selectors for a cherished place in the Games.

Offering national squad members subsidized support is valued, however someone will have to be watchful of any noticeable complacency as the sense of hunger may be diminished.

However, if national players become complacent, and inadequate tactical planning and training may be an example of that, then doors are open for other elite level players to swoop, win,  and replace them per access to ranking points and ultimately the playing positions for the Games.

Perhaps the eight national squad players with coaches are already at the front of the pack, mentally.

If they set the pace for all others then the squad that finally gets the nod in 500 days should be well equipped to perform and succeed.

If you hope to be one of the bowlers in the eye of the national selectors, then be different, prepare tactically now, 500 days out.

Get your coach, get your seat on that bus booked 500 days in advance.

Lachlan Tighe