Introduction
“Used the game model and it was a great start.”
Great starts matter. First sessions. First impressions. First implementations.
How you begin shapes what follows.
Why Starts Matter
Setting Expectations
First session communicates:
- What training will look like
- What standards exist
- What’s expected of players
- Who you are as a coach
Players adjust to whatever becomes normal.
Building Momentum
Good start creates:
- Confidence in approach
- Player buy-in
- Positive energy
- Foundation for building
Bad starts require recovery.
Establishing Patterns
First session patterns become habits:
- Arrival routines
- Training intensity
- Communication style
- Behavioural standards
Patterns are easier to set than reset.
Elements of Great Starts
Preparation
Before players arrive:
- Session planned completely
- Equipment ready
- Space organised
- Contingencies considered
Preparation prevents panic.
Clear Introduction
First minutes matter:
- Welcome players
- Explain session purpose
- Set expectations
- Generate enthusiasm
Don’t just start. Launch.
Quick Engagement
Get players active quickly:
- Minimal standing around
- Physical from early
- Engagement before explanation
- Energy before detail
Bodies moving, minds engaged.
Visible Progress
Within first session:
- Something achieved
- Improvement visible
- Success experienced
- Value demonstrated
Players should leave feeling they’ve gained something.
Positive Conclusion
How sessions end affects how players remember them:
- End on high note
- Summarise achievements
- Preview next time
- Send them away wanting more
Last impressions matter.
First Session With New Team
Unique Challenges
New team first session:
- Don’t know players
- Don’t know abilities
- Don’t know dynamics
- Everything is new
Higher stakes. Greater uncertainty.
Recommended Approach
First 15 minutes: Light activity while observing
- Names and faces
- Ability range
- Natural groupings
- Personality indicators
Middle portion: Flexible activity
- Adjustable challenge
- Multiple entry points
- Success possible for all
- Learning visible for you
Final portion: Game or fun activity
- End positively
- Create connection
- Build anticipation
- Make them want to return
What to Avoid
- Over-complicated sessions
- Too much talking
- Impossible challenges
- Favouritism emergence
- Running out of time
First impressions are hard to change.
First Session With New Approach
“Used the game model and it was a great start.”
Implementing new approach:
- Players unfamiliar with concepts
- You unfamiliar with delivery
- Both learning together
- Potential for confusion
How to Make It Work
Simplify mercilessly:
- One or two concepts only
- Clear explanation
- Visual demonstration
- Plenty of practice time
Don’t try to teach everything first day.
Acknowledge the change:
- “We’re trying something new”
- “This might feel different”
- “We’ll figure it out together”
Players appreciate honesty.
Celebrate small wins:
- When new approach works
- When players understand
- When connection to games visible
- When progress happens
Build confidence in new direction.
First Session After Break
Holiday Period Challenges
Post-break sessions:
- Fitness dropped
- Habits forgotten
- Momentum lost
- Reconnection needed
Recommended Approach
Physical: Build back gradually
- Bodies need time
- Injuries from over-exertion common
- Intensity increases over weeks
Technical: Refresh basics
- Don’t assume retention
- Revisit foundations
- Rebuild habits
Connection: Re-establish relationships
- Time to talk
- Catch up on holidays
- Rebuild team feeling
Don’t Expect Pre-Break Standards
First session back won’t match last session before break.
Plan for lower baseline. Build from there.
Measuring Start Quality
Immediate Indicators
Good start shows:
- Players engaged throughout
- Understanding demonstrated
- Enjoyment visible
- Energy sustained
Follow-Up Indicators
Great start confirmed by:
- Players asking when next session is
- Improved attendance
- Positive parent feedback
- Anticipation building
Your Feeling
Trust your instinct:
- Did it feel right?
- Were you comfortable?
- Did you enjoy it?
- Would you do it again?
Your energy affects everything.
Conclusion
“Used the game model and it was a great start.”
Great starts:
- Set tone
- Build momentum
- Establish patterns
- Create confidence
Whether it’s first session with new team, new approach, or new season, how you begin matters.
Plan for great starts. Execute with intention. Build from strong foundations.