This week’s mental workout is a special one just for coaches (and parents). Coach Antoinette explains that when athletes seem to ignore instructions, the issue often isn’t defiance but how coaching cues are communicated and processed under pressure. Coaches frequently give multiple cues quickly, and athletes, dealing with nerves, fatigue, fear of mistakes, and the desire to impress, may latch onto the wrong detail. She introduces a simple shift: ask “Tell me what you heard so far” instead of testing with “Were you listening?” Having athletes repeat what they heard increases engagement, reveals what didn’t land or got distorted, and builds awareness. She suggests using the question before drills, after mistakes, and in high-pressure moments to narrow focus to one clear cue, and notes parents can apply the same approach to reduce power struggles and build ownership.
00:00 Coaches Not Listening
01:01 The Real Breakdown
01:59 Tell Me What You Heard
02:17 Why It Works
02:49 How To Use It
03:28 Parents Can Too
04:09 Wrap Up And Subscribe
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