On Friday 2020-08-28 we hosted a new Coach Chat. Emily Calderon shared with us her insights about how to use video analysis (and how not to use it) for youth coaches.
Emily Calderon is a young Belgian coach and the video analyst for the Belgian national men’s team. She knows a thing or two about the right way to use video analysis…
The One Essential Takeaway for the Field Hockey Coach: Make Video Analysis Positive and Purposeful
After going through this masterclass on video analysis for youth field hockey, there’s one fundamental principle that stands above the rest: introduce video analysis as a positive, interactive tool focused on improvement—not as a vehicle for criticism.
Whether you’re a seasoned campaigner or a developing coach, it’s easy to get caught up in the technicalities—selecting the right clips, finding decent software, debating the optimal camera angle. However, none of this matters if players perceive video sessions as a moment where mistakes are broadcast and dissected. The real power of video analysis is unleashed only when it is used intentionally, with clear goals, and above all, with a positive approach.
Emily Calderon is crystal clear about the importance of this:
“Make sure also that their first contact is fun... If the first contact with something new is a bit difficult, players will keep being afraid of it and not really liking it.”
Why Does This Matter?
You know your players. For many, especially at the youth level, confidence is fragile. If their first exposure to video is negative or intimidating, you’ll be fighting an uphill battle for engagement and buy-in. Instead, use early video sessions to celebrate good play, reinforce what’s working, and let players experiment with technology themselves. For example, consider showing an excellent goal or a positive sequence, even if it’s as simple as a clip on your phone after training.
This isn’t just about being “nice”—it’s about creating an environment where feedback is welcome, mistakes are growth opportunities, and every player feels involved in the process.
How to Apply This in Your Coaching
Start with positive, fun clips, especially when first introducing video to new players or teams.
State your purpose: explain why you’re using video analysis and what you hope to achieve.
Let your players take part in the process—give them the chance to choose clips, discuss what they see, and come up with their own observations.
Use video as a team-building opportunity. In group sessions, focus on collective goals rather than singling out individuals, especially at the U14 level.
As you move up in age, gradually introduce more analysis, but always keep the balance between positives and areas to work on.
Here’s another insight from Emily Calderon worth anchoring in your daily routine:
“Let them watch clips themselves, maybe let them watch a full quarter and come up with 2, 3 points that they find important. Really make it interactive.”
This hands-on method encourages ownership and accountability. You’re not just teaching hockey; you’re teaching players how to learn and assess themselves—a skill that will serve them far beyond the pitch.
Why Watch the Full Video?
The masterclass delivers practical frameworks for coaches working across all youth age groups, from U12 to U19. You’ll see exactly how to structure video meetings, how to tailor content for different levels, and whether you’re working with a tactical team review or individual feedback. The discussion of key dangers—overlong meetings, poor video quality, balancing feedback—offers insight that every coach will find immediately relevant.
If you’re serious about maximizing your team’s development and want a blueprint for making video analysis work—not just in theory, but week-to-week and season-to-season—this is a session you’ll want to revisit, dissect, and apply. Read on behind the paywall for a deep dive into three actionable takeaways you can put to work in your own coaching.
