After a bad football game. What to say.
What to say after a bad game on the football field. The script for teens who are already getting it from coaches.
What they're feeling
- · Already replaying every mistake.
- · Probably heard about it from the coaching staff.
- · Feeling the weight of the team in a way that's specific to football.
- · Wanting to decompress without another debrief.
What to say (pick one)
- "That was a hard game. You kept going."
- "What do you need right now?"
- "The film will show more than the scoreboard."
Then stop talking.
What not to say
- "That offensive line let you down."
- "You missed three tackles. I counted."
- "You should have run that play differently."
The rule
Coaches already debriefed it. Your job is recovery, not more film session.
If they bring it up
- · Let them be the analyst if they want. Don't lead it.
- · Ask what they're taking into practice this week.
- · If they want to work extra, support it. Don't push it.
- · Football is physical and emotional. Give them time to come down.
Pin this
After a bad football game
- · They've already heard it from the coaches. You don't need to add more.
- · Let food and quiet do the reset.
- · Be available when they're ready to talk. Don't schedule it.
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