Stretching and Developing Those That Want it

Providing the opportunity for people in your club to have the chance to develop their skills not only benefits the club but can also benefit the individual and make their experience with the club more rewarding. To do this effectively clubs need to understand people at an individual level and understand what opportunities are available for them, both within the club and externally, through wider hockey structures such as the Talent System or England Hockey training and development opportunities.  

 For players this may mean finding ways to provide greater support to develop skills through extra or more specific training, advice and support off the pitch. For some clubs this might be about helping players to progress to play elsewhere at a time that is right for their development across the Talent System and potentially with other clubs, which can be supported by England Hockey’s Right Athlete Right Environment (RARE) principles. Ultimately there is a need to put the players’ needs at the heart of decision making. 

Coaches, umpires and volunteers are also key to consider when planning development opportunities. This could be courses, workshops or softer learning opportunities such as the Hockey Hub or internal club support through mentoring or coaching. Understanding the relevant coaching and umpiring pathways is important for clubs to maximise their people. As in business, this includes the need for a club to budget for developing people. 

There are lots of fantastic opportunities to develop the people within your club. Read on, challenge yourself by answering our handy questions, and then access a range of resources to get started today.