Reply To: Game Intelligence / Decision Training

[hockeygod]

Here is a great comment on the "Big Picture v Little Picture" … in response to RWF's post above:

Jim Thompson, a proponent of Positive Coaching, has described his favorite “Family Circus” comic strip. It is set in the middle of the night. Barfy, the family dog, is barking up a storm. The dad gets out of bed, irritated that he’s been awakened from a much-needed sleep. He yells at the dog, which hangs its head.

Then the cartoonist pans back so that we see a larger view. In the far corner of the yard, a burglar is retreating, unseen by the dad.

We, who see the “Big Picture”, know that the dog’s barking has protected the family from burglary. The dad, who sees only the “Little Picture”, is angry at the dog for disturbing him.

This cartoon can serve as a metaphor for youth sports. Youth coaches and parents can be overwhelmed by an enormous amount of Little Pictures filled with barking dogs. These Little Pictures often have a compelling power to obscure the Big Picture.

How our children do in any given sporting event is the Little Picture. Whether they win or lose, play well or badly, laugh or cry after the game – it’s all the Little Picture. Most will never play professionally – it’s just a game! What children take away from youth sports is to help them become successful and fulfilled in life is the Big Picture. Remaining physically active throughout life, learning to bounce back from difficulties with renewed determination, discovering how to support other people within a team and greater community context – this is the Big Picture.

Dean
M.Ed (Coaching)
Ch.P.C. (Chartered Professional Coach)
Game Intelligence Training
"Great education depends on great teaching."