By Viewing the Old, we Learn the New: The Impact of Video Feedback on Coach and Pupil Development in Sport

In our first blog of 2020 explored the importance of general physical preparation in the athletic development programme at Millfield. We proposed the importance of the concurrent training of physical qualities, the preference for volume over intensity, the use of exercise variation as a driver for neuromuscular adaptation, the importance of exercise technique validity and reliability and finally, aiming to elevate an individual’s technical strength threshold. In our second blog of 2020 we will move into the field of performance analysis and explore the importance of video footage to support the development of coaches and pupils in sport. In this short blog we will provide evidence on the importance of video footage within the coaching process. How do you use video footage to enhance the coaching process?

In the modern era of positive youth development in sport, coaches and pupils are continually exploring avenues to enhance their learning experience. This desire to improve has resulted in the enhanced integration of technology in youth sport, such as biomechanical analysis, data analysis and video analysis. The incorporation of video within the workflows of the coaching process has become common practice and one which can support both coach and pupil development. As highlighted in the quote below, the impact of video analytics on the development process in sport at Millfield is no different:

‘We believe that video plays a vital role across a number of sports here at Millfield school and benefits both coaches and the pupils. For pupils, the ability to self-reflect on their sporting performance post game or training is significantly enhanced though the support of video observational analysis. The ability to correctly interpret and propose improvements to both team and individual performance is vital for any inspiring pupils looking to develop in their sport. In relation to coaches, video allows them to provide meaningful visual feedback and frame coaching challenges within the context of real sporting scenarios.’ – Jack Like MISW Performance Analysis.

In supporting this position, research from the Social Science Research Network found that approximately 65% of people are visual learners. This strengthens the argument for the value and impact of video content on pupil’s and coach’s reflective practice in sports. In addition, The England Institute of Sport highlighted research that shows that on average, athletes and coaches can only recall 30% of previous performance correctly. This statistic again, highlights the true value of embedding video analytics within coaching workflows to support both pupil and coach development. In conclusion we aim to support the development process through Millfield sport by supporting the capture, processing and sharing of competition and training footage to allow pupils and coaches to optimise their knowledge and understanding of their sport and their enhance their personal development through sport.

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