So not? So don’t do it!

First explaining how the exercise works, then explaining what you want the players to do, and ending with: “so not…”? This way, an exercise ends with what we don’t want or don’t want to see. And what is usually remembered in practice? The last thing you said. Not to mention the fact that our brains often struggle with the word “not.”

Not thinking about something

The well-known question: Try not to think about Pinocchio?

And what are you thinking about now? Chances are you’re now thinking about a puppet with a long nose. During matches, coaches often give the instruction: Don’t serve to the libero, or don’t serve to number 8. Chances are, the serve still often ends up with the libero or number 8.

Say what you want to see during volleyball training

It’s better to state what you do want to see as a coach. Serve to number 3 or serve to position 1. So how does this apply to volleyball exercises during training? It’s better to place the player in the right position, briefly explain the exercise, and optionally mention the goal. That’s it. Only correct when correction is needed. Don’t elaborate too much, stick to the core.

Correct only when needed

There are coaches who place the players, explain the exercise, and only step in if necessary. If it really doesn’t go well, you can always pause the exercise and make corrections.

What do you see and what do you want to see?

Be as clear as possible—maybe there’s only one player not doing it right. Then you only need to correct one player. That saves a lot of energy! And because you’re brief and clear, it will also be easier to remember/understand, increasing the chance that more is learned. And thus more growth.

So don’t do it!
Just give it a try. Good luck!​