How to drop a player and achieve the right outcome
taking place. Now is not the time to shy away from the truth, be brutal, but be compassionate. The more truthful you are with the player, the more he or she will respect your decision, especially when you lead into steps four and five.
4. Explain what needs to be done
Be careful not to use the words “re-claim” or “your spot” because this gives the player a sense of possession, that it’s already theirs and they have momentarily lost it. Rather speak equivocally, that no-one has the right to be in the team and that every spot must be “earned.” This gives the player a sense of desire and ultimately achievement when rewarded that spot. There’s a managerial concept called Build, Break, Build – this quietly starts the conversation on a positive note about what they’re doing well, before you explain what needs to be improved and finish with some motivation, try this.
Still in the same conversation, prepare a list of things you would like to see the player actively improve in order to be considered for a spot in your team, and explain what they are. For example, if a player needs to work on commitment, let’s see an improvement at training and post-match attendance. If it’s performance, let’s see them train harder at sessions and do some extra skills. If it’s discipline, a change in attitude is required. Explain this to the player and again, always ask for feedback.
5. Encourage improvement and monitor progress
Having agreed upon what needs to change to be considered for selection, set some realistic and achievable goals. These may revolve around the above examples, some self improvement with skills, some attitude adjustments or whatever it is you feel they need to rectify. Turn up to the second squad’s match on the weekend and show the player you are actively monitoring their progress and give feedback. Never stop encouraging, the more you do, the more they will want to improve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there’s no easy way to break the news to a player they are being dropped. How you handle this situation will determine the outcome of that player’s season and natural progression through the game. However, if you follow these five steps, you’ll find you’ll be able to control the process much easier, will achieve a better outcome and will increase the player’s engagement and respect towards you as a rugby coach. For further ideas on how to become a better rugby coach with additional ideas and fresh drills at training, join Global Rugby for guaranteed monthly resources. If you have another way to approach this situation or can testify to our process’s accuracy, please leave your say below in the comments section.