
Setting Goals for Practices & Games
Quick Summary:
- Goals give athletes clear intent, direction, and focus during both practices and games.
- The most effective goals are process-based (controllable), not outcome-based.
- Long-term goals provide motivation, but daily practice and game goals should focus on improvement and performance.
- Two key questions guide goal-setting: What will help me improve? What will help me play my best?
- Clear, controllable goals improve practice quality and help athletes perform more consistently in games.
- Process-focused goals reduce anxiety, keep athletes present, and support confident performances.








