Blow-Out Games: Coaching Opportunities in a Mismatched Game

Author: Jodi Council, Region 595 Coach Administrator and Advanced Coach Trainer

Blow-Outs can occur at any level and in any game regardless of how well the teams are matched — a particular player/team plays extraordinarily while the other team struggles. How we respond defines us! This presentation focuses on ways to transform a blowout match into a valuable experience for you, your players, and supporters! A myriad of opportunities often presented in a lop-sided match provides substantive opportunities for player development and team development. Additionally, the character and life lessons opportunities presented in these matches far outweigh the result of any one game.

The presentation identifies as series of situations that typically occur when despite the best efforts to achieve Balanced Teams a lopsided match occurs. What can be done? The presentations details a list of coaching opportunities for the coach of the team on the dominant side of the mismatched game, and the coach on the other side of a mismatched game/score to consider. Topics covered include: tactical adjustments, player development and skill building, character development, sportsmanship, sideline behavior, and other creative ways to manage and benefit from a mismatched game.