With
a big event approaching a sense of urgency arises along with possible
self-doubt as to whether the athlete has done "enough" training. To help in this 'fear' they must have
confidence in a structured training program; have enough self-confidence to
know that they have trained as much as possible and that training, is correct
and geared towards a 'peak' which would be this big event.
From
a training point of view, make sure that the athlete has clearly defined plans
for training right up to the final stages. Avoid the temptation to do "just that little bit more"
in the last couple of days.
Last
ditch efforts have a very low success rate and only result in lowering their
confidence.
Be
sure to keep a record of what the athlete is doing in their preparation. That
way they will be directed to repeat the good things and avoid any pitfalls. If
the coach or athlete discover that they should have done something else, note
it for next time, rather than relying on memory. For now be pleased with the
efforts and channel the athlete’s attention to doing what they have been
training.
By
making out a daily diary, it should include how the athlete intends to use
their shooting time. For a start, plan not to go to the range every day for
long periods. This is not only physically tiring but mentally exhausting too.
Look at the shooting schedules and plan range commitments accordingly. Remember
to plan for rest and recreational periods also.
The
athletes success rate at these events may be judged in several ways. The
obvious success gauge will be winning. But this may be out of reach at this
stage of their career, so realistic goals need to be set. The coach must look
at where the athlete is 'now' and what their 'realistic'
peak score could be. When setting goals, naturally scores come into
mind. Being realistic, will lessen the chances of failure due to the over
expectations they may perceive that others around them are placing on their
result.
By
looking at the athletes average 'club' scores
and their average 'open' shoot
scores, there may be a margin of perhaps 15 points. Set goals around these
scores, but do not expect, or hope to get close to their 'top' score.
'Hoping'
and 'wishing' are thoughts doomed for
failure. Being realistic, helps confront the situation with greater
self-confidence. Achieving goals helps build self-esteem which in turn helps
confidence. You can see that it becomes a cycle.
The
athlete’s chances of success can be improved through the following:
Planning out the athlete’s events
properly and constructively will increase the chances of their success. The
planning would start from the time they arrive at the range, set up on the
range, how they should use preparation time, how to constructively use sighters
and then the match and the requirements to fire one or a string of shots.
