Match day motivation

Ask the players

First and foremost, talk to the players. Do they share your views?

Ask them to complete a questionnaire about their reasons for playing rugby, how they prepare for a match and what (if any) motivational techniques they use or work for them. Then, discuss possible routines that the players can follow in preparing for a match.

The insights gained from their answers will help guide you in motivating your players. For example, someone who is playing for largely social reasons is unlikely to respond to “blood, sweat and tears” type exhortations!

The routine at the ground

Once at the ground, follow a set routine. A lot of match day anxiety is caused by concentrating on factors beyond your control. Having a set routine encourages players to focus on those factors they have greater control over and this in turn helps in motivating them to go out and perform.

Discuss this with your players first. If they have been involved in formulating the routine they are far more likely to come up with one that suits them.

The discussion will also raise awareness of the different motivational needs and techniques of different players – sensitivity to others is not always at the front of every player’s mind!

Be flexible – different situations and different players will require different approaches. Sometimes all that will be required is a quiet word or reminder here and there, at others a more forceful statement of intent is required.

Don’t dwell on past matches, performances, errors or the opposition. Concentrate on your team and players, giving them both specific individual and collective tasks to focus on.

As Bob Dwyer used to say: "Concentrate on performing to the best of your ability, the points will take care of themselves."

What really matters

Lastly, avoid the blood and thunder, win-at-all-costs approach if possible. Rugby is not a matter of life or death and the focus should firmly be on enjoyment.

Yes, winning is important, but as I remind my players, if that was all that mattered I would arrange all our fixtures against the local primary school. You can play badly and win, or brilliantly and lose.