Six Skill Capabilities

Technique vs Skill

The six skill capabilities

Using the six skill capabilities: Intercepting

Using the six skill capabilities: Pressing

Using the six skill capabilities: Passing

Using the six skill capabilities: Tackling

Using the six skill capabilities: Shooting

Using the six skill capabilities: Turning

Technique vs Skill

In the world of sports coaching, understanding the difference between technique and skill is crucial for coaches. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different aspects of performance. Let’s delve into what each term means and why distinguishing between them is essential for effective coaching and development.

Technique: The Foundation of Performance

Technique refers to the specific method or way of performing a particular movement or task. It’s the "how" of the action. Think of it as the blueprint or the set of instructions for executing a movement correctly and efficiently.

For example, in football, kicking a ball accurately involves a precise technique that includes the positioning of the foot, the angle of approach, the part of the foot that contacts the ball, and the follow-through. Technique is all about the mechanics and the fine details that need to be mastered to perform an action correctly.

Key Aspects of Technique:

Form and Mechanics: The physical execution of a movement.
Consistency: Repeating the same movement pattern correctly.
Efficiency: Performing the movement with minimal wasted energy.

Skill: The Application of Technique

Skill, on the other hand, is the ability to use the correct technique effectively in a game or competitive situation. It’s the "what" and "when" of the action, combining physical execution with decision-making and adaptability. Skill is about applying techniques in real-life scenarios, under pressure, and adapting to dynamic and often unpredictable environments.

Skill involves not only kicking the ball accurately but also making quick decisions about when and where to kick it during a match. A skilled participant can perform various techniques fluidly and appropriately within the context of the game.

Key Aspects of Skill:

Decision-Making: Choosing the right technique at the right time.
Adaptability: Adjusting techniques based on the situation.
Effectiveness: Achieving the desired outcome under pressure.

Bridging the Gap: From Technique to Skill

To become proficient in any sport, participants need to bridge the gap between technique and skill. This involves practice, experience, and the ability to adapt techniques to different contexts. Coaches play a pivotal role in this process by:

Teaching Proper Technique: Ensuring athletes learn and refine the correct methods for performing movements.
Creating Realistic Practice Scenarios: Providing opportunities for participants to apply techniques in game-like situations.
Encouraging Decision-Making: Helping participants develop the cognitive aspects of skill by simulating competitive environments.

England Football have developed the six capabilities of being skilful. Whilst these have been created for football, these are transferable across sports. As coaches, integrating opportunities for these to occur in our sessions, and targeting feedback towards these can help our players develop skill, whilst at the same time also developing technique. We do not need to develop these separately.