Addressing Low Training Morale in Table Tennis

D K Asked 6 days ago

Greetings Team,

yesterday we had a large meeting with the coach. He pointed out that the training morale of the training is quite low.

I noticed it myself - when training with one girl I noticed that after EVERY ball she just walks away from the table...or next time she just started staring somewhere else into an empty space. I had to physically throw a ball at her to even get her attention back to the fact that we are in the middle of training.
Another girl played two balls and then squatted and started to tap her knee,lost in thoughts.....I had to CLAP aloud to "wake" her. One boy just keeps having tantrums after failing a ball against me... Generally I noticed that most of the players are trying to make big gaps between two rallies when they train with me. Coach said that he has seen this trend among more of them not just those playing with me - okay during training I do not have time to check it. Stopping mid-training...coming or not coming to training without prior notice....not working on the training...the coach told me that I am probably the only one who does not do these things. (sort of logical - I am the only adult there). The parents often do not cooperate too much because most of the group is around fifteen and the parents give them more freedom on their decisions. Or maybe the talk with their kids but at the training where the parents are not present they ignore it who knows. Result is the same they just don't train their fullest. Therefore,I often get bored because I spend more time waiting for my sparring to actually stop walking around or staring to nowhere or having a tantrum.

The coach announced that he will be much less tolerant to this behavior from now on and should anyone exhibit this behavior again he/she will be fired from the unit. I was able to tell that he is quite desperate not knowing what should he do more as we train for performance - it is not a kid game.

I would like to ask you for your insight and opinion on the matter.
I and the coach,we think both our own,but I am interested in your opinions too. 

Thanks

Dan

Alois Rosario Answered 2 days ago

Hi Dan,

Thanks for reaching out and sharing your concerns about the training discipline within your table tennis group. It sounds like a challenging situation, but there are several strategies you can consider to help improve morale and engagement.

Understanding the Root Cause

Firstly, it's crucial to understand the underlying reasons why the players are disengaged. This could range from personal issues, lack of interest in table tennis, to not feeling challenged or motivated by the training sessions. It might be helpful to have individual conversations with the players or a group discussion to openly address their feelings and concerns. This can provide valuable insights into their lack of motivation.

Creating a Motivating Environment

Enhancing the training environment to make it more engaging and motivating can also help. This could include:

• Variety in Training: Introducing different drills, games, and competitive scenarios that are both fun and challenging can help keep the training sessions fresh and engaging.
• Goal Setting: Work with each player to set personal and team goals. This gives them something to strive towards and can increase their commitment to training.
• Positive Reinforcement: Focus on positive reinforcement and recognition of efforts and improvements, no matter how small. This can boost their confidence and enthusiasm.

Structured Discipline

While your coach has opted for a stricter approach, it’s important that discipline is balanced with support. Rules and expectations should be clear, but delivered in a way that reinforces their importance in helping players achieve their best, rather than as punitive measures only.

Role Models and Mentoring

As the only adult in the group, you could potentially act as a role model or mentor. Demonstrating your dedication and sharing your passion for the sport can be inspirational. Perhaps you could share stories of your own challenges and successes in table tennis to motivate them.

Scheduled Breaks and Social Time

Finally, ensure there is enough time for breaks and some social interaction among the players. Sometimes, building camaraderie off the table can translate to better teamwork and morale on the table.