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Where do I start with this one? I realise that by the definition of “Adventure Sports” slalom doesn’t strictly fall into the category but given that in order to progress in slalom participants have to learn white-water paddling skills (very much an adventure sport), and that a lot of coaching skills are transferable, I feel that book can be included here as relevant to the aims of the site.
I read the book thinking primarily as a slalom coach though my other roles as “Foundation Climbing Coach”, “Mountain Leader” and even “Maths Teacher” crept into my thoughts at times!
I have read a few sports coaching books recently, including the main text recommended by British Canoeing, and this is by far the best. It is ridiculously accessible and utilises diagrams, photos, anecdotes and examples to aid explanation of the concepts covered. It even quotes Yoda (this wasn’t a selling point – the quote is late on in the book). My mind was constantly buzzing with ideas and reflections as I read it.
I agree with other reviewers who have said that it should be required reading for all new coaches. I wish it had been available when I started coaching (or instructing – badly) back in the early 90s. It is probably more useful though to the coach who has some experience under their belt, so that they can reflect on past experience as they take in the ideas here. I will certainly go back to it over and over in the future as I try to get to grips with some of the behaviours mentioned and improve the learning experience for those I am coaching.
The book keeps technical jargon to a minimum, and where it is used it is explained really well. It builds in the ideas I am trying to put across on this website such as games-based approach, non-linear pedagogy and a constraints-led approach. I looked up the referenced article on coaching games and suddenly ideas for interesting and engaging ways to try coaching slalom started flying round my head. Of the other books and articles listed as “further reading” those that I have already read I’ve been impressed by, so I’m looking forward to delving deeper into some of the recommendations.
There are a lot of things in the book that I had played with previously, and I now have a better idea of how to implement them. There are also a lot of points that I hadn’t previously considered and will start experimenting with them as I strive to be a better coach. I think a coach at any level will get something out of this book be it ideas, reflections, confirmations or the need to drastically change what they are doing!
If you’ve read it please let me know what you thought, and if you haven’t it’s definitely worth getting.
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