Setting clear training and development targets for players early in the season is crucial in professional football because they offer a multitude of benefits for players. These targets must also be clearly communicated and presented to the player. It is particularly important that the player understands what the club's vision is and what path they should take together with the club. The targets can either be defined by the club itself or, for example, be set by the federations. In Switzerland, for example, a scale called the TIPS scale is used in the youth sector. We will refer to this TIPS scale as part of target agreement and target validation later on in the course.
Setting season targets creates a clear and structured alignment for the players and the entire team. By pursuing a target, they can coordinate their efforts and work more efficiently. This leads to better team dynamics and encourages cooperation among players. Additionally, setting targets helps keep players motivated. When they know what they are fighting for and the rewards they can reap, they are more willing to put in consistent effort and see through difficult times. It also provides a clear guideline for their individual development and enables them to reach their full potential.
Last but not least, setting targets creates a basis for evaluating player performance. By defining clear metrics, each player's progress can be monitored and evaluated. This enables the coaches to work specifically on weak points and to support the players individually if necessary.
Another important point, besides target agreement at season start, is the adaption of the SAP Sports One system for the upcoming season. This involves introducing seasonal subtleties after having already set up the basic infrastructure of the system covered in the Considering Basics for Training Management unit. Therefore, we would like to shift the focus from the general initial system setup to seasonal configurations.
This unit focuses on how a coach can achieve the vision, for example by creating the practices for the season and tracking configurations to check progress. It also explains how the target review can be presented. Here, the focus is especially set on the agreement of season targets for the players.