Introduction

A recognition and motivational drive to consistently be better. The vision for future GB squads is of players, coaches and support staff who are relentless in their courage and determination to not only win, but all pursue and be the best version of themselves as often as possible. Those that excel, know that there is no ceiling for their development, and they know that in bringing the best version of themselves, they will be taking the game to new levels. The talent system, therefore, has the task of supporting athletes to understand and apply this  pursuit of excellence’. 

We must not forget that players in the system can be young though. We are not suggesting that, at 13 years of age, players should apply this pursuit, have robust mental skills or consistently act with relentless energy - far from it. We know that many players will be in their early / mid twenties as aspects of their maturation embeds. With young players, our opportunity is to embed performance based values and behaviours that set young people up well for subsequent steps.

Otherwise we will see players burn out too young to reach their full potential.

Relentless Spirit is a way of behaving on and off the field of play - it shows with an attitude of constant grit and determination. It is a typical “British Bulldog” spirit. On the pitch this requires running into position, tackle back, leading at a sprint.

To play internationally requires physical capabilities to play high intensity for short periods, so the level of quality and speed of the game can be maintained.

Off the pitch this requires diligence in everything that makes an international hockey player – video work; nutrition; hydration etc. and the repetitive nature of pursuing excellence. Having relentless spirit keeps you motivated to progress and perform.

The recognition of the diversity of the player qualities of Great British Hockey athletes can not be  underestimated. This is critical in our vision of ‘Pursuit of excellence’. We recognise that our best GB teams have been forged from efficiently and effectively utilising the best assets of all individuals to make the best for the team.

Developing a full range of superstrengths through our talent system, so that all know how to effectively and consistently deliver on that superstrength, is important. 

Superstrengths can be developed from any of the five ‘Complete Player’ qualities that make up any elite hockey player:

GAME UNDERSTANDING | HIGHLY SKILLED ACTIONS | PHYSICAL CAPABILITIES MENTAL SKILLS | TEAMSHIP SKILLS

Having a range of superstrengths within the team allows for mitigation of the weaknesses of teammates. There will always be a fine balance between these five qualities and the superstrength/s to warrant selection for Great Britain and Home Nation teams.

We recognise that no two players will be the same and that diversity will be the strength of our success. We all know that every GB Senior Athlete has a different mix of qualities. Some have great game understanding; some have more speed; some have a great passing range; others are great eliminators. Each individual is unique. The beauty of the future GB qualities is identifying the unique blend of each individual. It therefore helps to identify key areas of strengths – what we will term superstrengths and key areas of limitations – what we have termed superfocus.

Identifying these areas is critical to the development of players. These will and should adapt over time. The skill is for the player and coach to identify the areas for the superstrength and superfocus that will take their game to the next level. Not only is the skill in identifying the areas to put most energy, but it’s how they are then developed with the player.

The need to create a supportive and challenging environment player-to- player; coach-to-player and player- to-coach has also been highlighted as key to producing world class GB athletes.

A term currently used is psychological safety, an environment that feels safe, inclusive and allows confidence in speaking up and being heard to challenge or support.

This really helps move learning and development forward. This is specifically designed to encourage players to have their voice (in the correct manner at the correct time) and for coaches/ captains/teammates to recognise and allow for these moments for the positive learning experience of all.