In his insightful presentation, Dr. Mike Ashford, Coach Developer, dives deep into the critical yet often overlooked aspect of youth sport: decision making. Speaking as part of the ICOACHKIDS initiative, Ashford explores how coaches can better support young athletes in developing the cognitive skills needed to make effective decisions both on and off the field.

Ashford begins by framing decision making as a cornerstone of athletic development, particularly in team sports. He explains that while physical skills are often prioritized in youth coaching, the ability to read the game, anticipate outcomes, and choose appropriate actions is what truly separates good players from great ones. This cognitive dimension, he argues, must be nurtured from an early age.

Drawing on his research in rugby union, Ashford outlines three key perspectives on decision making: information processing, ecological dynamics, and naturalistic decision making. Each offers a different lens through which coaches can understand how athletes perceive and respond to game situations. Importantly, Ashford emphasizes that no single model is universally superior; rather, effective coaching involves blending these approaches based on context and individual needs.

A central theme of the presentation is the role of the coach in creating environments that promote decision making. Ashford encourages coaches to move away from rigid, prescriptive instruction and toward guided discovery—a method that allows players to explore, experiment, and learn through experience. This approach not only enhances tactical understanding but also builds confidence and autonomy.

Ashford also discusses the importance of representative learning design, which involves replicating real-game scenarios in training. By exposing athletes to the kinds of decisions they’ll face in competition, coaches can help them develop the perceptual and cognitive skills needed to succeed under pressure.

Another key takeaway is the need for a shared language around decision making. Ashford advocates for clear, consistent terminology that helps coaches and players communicate effectively about tactical choices. This communal understanding can streamline feedback, reinforce learning, and foster a more cohesive team culture.

The presentation concludes with a call to action: for coaches to embrace their role not just as skill instructors, but as facilitators of thinking. By prioritizing decision making in youth sport, Ashford believes we can develop smarter, more adaptable athletes who are equipped to thrive in dynamic environments.

You can watch the full presentation below