10 Post-Game Reflection Prompts Great Coaches Use

Every game is an opportunity to grow--but only if you take the time to reflect.

Great coaches don’t just move on after the final whistle. They ask themselves the right questions, break down what happened, and use those lessons to improve. Win or lose, every game has something to teach.

Here are 10 post-game reflection prompts that will help you become a better coach and develop a stronger team.

10. Did I recognize and celebrate small victories and individual efforts during the game?

Big plays get the attention, but small wins build confidence.

• Did I highlight effort, hustle, and smart decisions?
• Did I make sure every player felt valued?
• Did I keep the team's energy up, even in tough moments?

Why It Matters: When players know their hard work is noticed, they’ll keep giving their best effort.

9. How well did our team stick to the game plan and where did we deviate?

Coaching isn't just about creating strategy--it's about execution.

• Did the team follow the plan?
• Where did things break down?
• If we made adjustments, were they necessary and effective?

Why It Matters: Discipline and adaptability are both key to success. Learn where your team excelled and where they need better focus.

8. What adjustments did I make during the game and how effective were they?

A great coach reads the game in real-time and makes the right moves.

• What changes did I make?
• Did they help or hurt the team?
• What can I do better next time?

Why It Matters: Coaching is problem-solving on the fly. The more you evaluate your decisions, the sharper you'll get.

7. How well did I communicate with my players, assistants, and officials during the game?

Your voice sets the tone for your team. Did you use it effectively?

• Were my instructions clear and encouraging?
• Did my players seem to understand my message?
• Did I maintain composure when speaking with officials?

Why It Matters: The best leaders communicate with confidence, clarity, and respect.

6. What moments stood out as key turning points and how can we learn from them?

Every game has a few moments that change everything.

• What were the biggest momentum shifts?
• How did we respond?
• How can we prepare for similar moments in the future?

Why It Matters: Recognizing game-changing moments help your team stay ready when the pressure is on.

5. What skills or strategies should we prioritize in our next practice?

Each game reveals what needs work.

• What weaknesses were exposed?
• What fundamentals need reinforcing?
• Did anything surprise me about our performance?

Why It Matters: Your next practice should be shaped by what you learned today.

4. What feedback can I provide to individual players to help them grow?

Coaching isn't just about the team--it's about developing each athlete.

• Who stepped up today?
• Who struggled and how can I help them improve?
• What specific advice can I give each player?

Why It Matters: Specific, personal feedback leads to real growth. Players need to know what they did well and what to work on.

3. What behaviors or habits did I model today that I want my players to emulate?

Your players will reflect your attitude, energy, and behavior.

• Did I stay positive and focused?
• Did I show resilience after setbacks?
• Did I display the sportsmanship and discipline I expect from them?

Why It Matters: Players learn more from your actions than your words. Be the example.

2. What did our team do well today and how can we build on those strengths?

Reflection isn't just about fixing mistakes--it's about reinforcing success.

• What was our biggest strength?
• How can we keep improving in that area?
• How do I make sure we don't take it for granted?

Why It Matters: Doubling down on strengths can give your team an edge over the competition.

1. What is the most important lesson my players can take from this game?

If you could only take away one lesson from this game? what would it be?

• What's the biggest thing we learned today?
• How will it shape our approach moving forward?
• How will I communicate this to my team?

Why It Matters: The best coaches never stop learning. Make sure you leave every game with a takeaway that helps you and your players improve.

 

Reflection = Growth

Great coaches don't just move on after the game. They reflect, learn, and get better.

Take a few minutes after every game to go through these reflection prompts.

Even better--share these with your team and make reflection part of your culture.