BEHAVIIORAL COACHING TO IMPROVE OFFENSIVE LINE PASS‐BLOCKING SKILLS OF HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL ATHLETES

Abstract

We evaluated several behavioral coaching procedures for improving offensive line pass‐blocking skills with 5 high school varsity football players. Pass blocking was measured during practice drills and games, and our intervention included descriptive feedback with and without video feedback and teaching with acoustical guidance (TAG). Intervention components and pass blocking were evaluated in a multiple baseline design, which showed that video feedback and TAG were the most effective procedures. For all players, improved pass blocking matched a standard derived by observing more experienced linemen and was evident in games. Additional intervention was required to maintain pass‐blocking proficiency. Issues pertinent to behavioral coaching and sport psychology research are discussed.