Set the Table
Games are intense. They require heightened levels of engagement and quick thinking in high-pressure situations, therefore it’s essential to have exercises that help prepare our players for those moments. When the clock is ticking, their number is called and they have to perform; how well do they do?
Leaders don’t cave in pressure situations, they rise to the occasion.
Word Pop is an exercise that’ll help your players get the reps needed to perform their best when the “lights come on.” Word Pop will raise the levels of engagement in your players, challenge them to think quick and to stay ready for when their number will be called.
Have fun and #LeadEmUp
"“I loved this exercise. It required me to stay locked-in and think quick in a pressure situation, just like we need to do in games ”"
Junior Quarterback - Maryland High School
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Lesson Plan
Example Videos
See Word Pop in action below to get a better understanding of how to teach the the Exercise.
Exercise Reminder Card
To emphasize and reinforce the lessons learned in this exercise with your players, download and share this graphic with them 24 hours after completing the exercise.
Quiz Questions
Use these questions below to engage after you have taught the exercise.
- Leaders don’t cave in pressure situations, they _________.
- What major lesson does being on your tip-toes teach?
- How does increased focus lead to better performance?
At Home
Coaches, use the below question, reflection, and action to engage parents, guardians, and other family members in the lessons learned in this exercise.
Suggestions on how to use: Email to parents the day you have taught this lesson, add it to the materials you send home, or text it to text message threads with your players.
- Question: How does Word Pop enhance your ability to focus?
- Reflection: Why is it important for athletes to be excellent in their engagement?
- Action: Share some ways you can increase your levels of engagement and focus this week at practice.
Coach’s Reflection
Coach, take a moment to reflect on the lesson and how you can lead by example to your players.
Coach, distractions are everywhere. They are never-ending. How easily does your team get distracted and get off task, or lose their focus? How much better would your team be if their engagement was more consistent?