10 Tips for More Effective Player Evaluations
Player evaluations - assessments, progress reports, report cards, IDPs or whatever you call them – can be very impactful for players of all ages and levels of play, so it’s worthwhile to invest in a thoughtful process that facilitates positive engagement and optimal outcomes.
Here are 10 tips that Sprocket collected from leading associations across the country:
Remember the Purpose
Evaluations should be more than just a checkbox – they are an important tool for player Development, Inspiration, and Connection – all of which leads to a stronger association and more loyal families.
Engage Players in the Process
Collaborate with players by asking them to share their personal goals and complete a self-evaluation. This helps to get everyone on the same page and helps inspire players to “own” their personal development.
Be Positive but Honest
Start by highlighting a player’s strengths and positive attributes; then be honest and direct about areas in which the player is still developing or struggling. If a player needs to be moved down to a “B” team, it should never be a surprise. Honesty builds trust and improves retention.
Give Actionable Feedback
Develop an action plan for improvement based on the player’s goals. What types of drills or exercises – or free play - can the player do outside of team practices?
Meet In Person
It can be difficult for coaches with several teams to meet with every player and parent, but even a 10-minute face-to-face meeting at a coffee shop or over Zoom builds the personal connection and clarifies feedback that can be misunderstood in a form.
Timing is Key
Look at the overall calendar and find quiet times in the season – this might differ based on age group.
Adjust Based on Age & Level
Remember that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to evaluations and feedback. An elite level high school player looking to play in college needs much more direct feedback than a 12-year-old who hasn’t yet hit a growth spurt.
Identify “Outliers”
Look out for players who receive the highest and lowest scores. These players “on the bubble” may need to be moved up or down for the next season, so begin to collaborate with association staff on how to best to support/challenge players, navigate conversations and manage transitions.
Assess Your Evaluation Process
Is everyone receiving a report? Are meetings taking place? Are parents in the loop? Are players feeling motivated or deflated? Understand what’s happening by checking in with coaches and surveying your families. Not all coaches are good at delivering feedback – make sure that those who might be a little “rough around the edges” get some training.
Take Advantage of Technology!
It’s essential to leverage modern technology to minimize the time required of your coaches and staff, avoid lost paper forms and emails, and to meet your customers where they are – online and on their phones. Let technology do the work for important tasks such as:
- Form creation
- Rating/ranking players
- Central storage of player reports & progress over time
- Scheduling meetings
- Tracking report and meeting completion and sending reminders
- AI assistance in writing comments and communications