OTú Coaching Model

The OTú Interactive Coaching Model is the latest coaching development in Gaelic Games. The OTú Coaching Model - the O as in oxygen and Tú, Irish for ‘you' - provides the framework for organising balanced training programmes that enable players to deliver on their true potential.

The model, developed by Pat Daly, GAA Head of Games, is structured around the integration of what is called the 3T's and the 3P's - Technical Proficiency, Tactical Awareness and Team Play ,and Psychological Focus, Physical Fitness and Playing Facts. The coach implements the OTú Model using Coaching and Communication Inputs with Comprehension and Conviction.

A player requires many different skills to perform to his potential during a game situation. Not only does he/she need to be able to perform the underlying techniques of the game, but he/she needs to be able to employ them effectively at match tempo (Technical Proficiency). He/she also needs to be able to weigh up match situations and decide on the best option to take and when to take it (Tactical Prowess), and be able to anticipate the movements of his team-mates and synchronise with them during set play and general play (Team Play).

These skills should be developed in an integrated manner along with Physical Fitness, Psychological Focus and a knowledge and acceptance of the Playing Facts, in a balanced manner best suited to the requirements of the specific game.

Breakdown of the 3 T'S and 3 P's od the OTú Coaching Model

Technical Proficiency: Technical Proficiency is the ability to perform the underlying techniques of the game accurately, consistently and at match tempo.

Tactical Awareness: is the ability to weigh up match situations and decide on what option to take and when to take it - for example, to shoot for a score, carry the ball, pass it on or play it into space when in attack; or place the opposition under maximum pressure when defending.

Team Play: is the ability to anticipate movements and synchronise who should go where during play or set-piece situations in order to score or convert possession into scores when in attack, or minimise the amount of clean possession and time and space available to opponents to make clear use of the ball, when defending.

Psychological: focus is the ability to maintain focus on the here and now and switch concentration as the need arises.

Physical fitness: is the ability to perform the basic techniques, engage in physical contests and responds to the signs, sounds and signals experienced during the game with the least possible expenditure of energy.

Playing facts: refers to the ability to identify playing strengths and areas where improvement is required, and to accept why changes in training, tactics, team line out etc may be required.