Coaching: Reverse Psychology

[Youth Hockey Info]

Does reverse psychology coaching work with youth hockey players?

We've all seen and heard of what some consider authoritative coaches in the NHL, ie. "Iron" Mike Keenan, John Tortorella and Ken Hitchcock to name a few. But on the other hand, analysts have also referred to them as player killers. They use abusive psychological and sometimes threatening behavior as a tool to get what they believe will be the most out of their players. Some players and parents praise this type of coaching technique while others consider it toxic. Is this an acceptable form of coaching philosophy today and does anybody think it actually works?

Does threatening players with disciplinary action affect their psyche adversely when a coach expects a certain level of play and doesn't see it come to fruition? Does name calling or references of negative comparison get the most out a player who might be struggling?

There are still coaches who consider themselves "Old School" and find this kind of coaching technique as acceptable.

Do you?

[Guest]

Speaking to kids 6- 16 should be respectful, Motivating, but firm. The object is to build players confidence not destroy it. Cursing, screaming and generally abusing children emotionally is never part of good coaching. If you need to see how a bad coach operates and destroys kids love for the game stop by for a visit to the rink in South Jersey/Sewell area they have one of the best examples in all of youth hockey. Sadly they allow it to continue for years.

[Guest]

Speaking to kids 6- 16 should be respectful, Motivating, but firm. The object is to build players confidence not destroy it. Cursing, screaming and generally abusing children emotionally is never part of good coaching. If you need to see how a bad coach operates and destroys kids love for the game stop by for a visit to the rink in South Jersey/Sewell area they have one of the best examples in all of youth hockey. Sadly they allow it to continue for years.

Know exactly who you are talking about and the reason we left HD !