29 Feb 2024
By Bill Mackay
On Saturday 17th February, the Session Coach Level 1 Course Observation Day held at the Shed, Montrose starting at 09.00 running until 17.30 took place. Coach Developers present included myself as Lead assisted by Iain Wilson and organiser Linda Dallas. Eight Coaches presented for the observation day.Â
The day consisted of observations across a variety of tasks. Range safety check forms completed by Coaches and checked by developers. All shooting equipment inspected (safety) and setup measured for use of the Coaches and archers. Warmup and cooldown observed in groups. As part of the training is to have a planned lesson. Session plan for new archers presented and followed.
Each Coach had two archers to take on their first shoot with all the guidance and instructions given at the appropriate time also drills to assist with practice, and observer coach giving feedback after completion of the session, along with the archers to the coach. Observed and marked on sheets by a developer. Each Coach then completed a session reflection by receiving and noting down their feedback.Â
This was repeated till all Coaches had completed their tasks. This then opened the professional discussion on the coach's observation day and preparation for that day. Â
The coaches all worked well together, and we had a really successful outcome. All eight coaches were successful on the observation.
Due to weather and mentor availability Coach licenses will be issued when supported practice is completed for each coach.
From delivering his course this prompted some reflection on Session Coach course:
·       There is a lot of learning to happen prior to observation day.
·       Planning and preparation for the observation day is really necessary for all coaches.
·       Reading the booklet and doing the tasks at the time of the module would also reduce the observation day stress.
·       Learning is a continuous process also learning how and where to learn is part of a coach's journey.
·       I am really glad that the coaches have worked hard to achieve this certificate.
Would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone best of luck and good shooting to those who have Observation Days coming up including on 2nd & 17th March in the West Areas at the Hawkhead Centre in Paisley and to the second day in the North Area on 24th March.