Match Day Scout Report Worksheet Match Day Scout Report
Tactical Analysis & Performance Review
Player Name
Session Date
1. Scouting the Opponent: Identifying Triggers
Great managers know what their opponent is going to do before it happens. What specific events, words, or situations "press" your buttons and start the game on the wrong foot?
2. Avoiding the Red Card
The Foul (The Action)
What do I do when I'm frustrated or triggered?
The Suspension (The Feeling/Result)
How does that action make me feel later?
3. The Set-Piece Library: Coping Plays
When the game gets intense, you need a pre-planned move to regain control. Pick your top 3 "Set-Piece" plays to use this week.
The Deep Breath Reset
The 5-Min Substitution
The Audio Focus Play
The Tactical Stretch
The Coach Check-In
Custom Play...
GOAL
Win Condition for Next Session
What does a "winning" week look like for you?
Sideline Strategy Guide Teacher Notes Sideline Strategy Guide
Facilitator Notes for Game-Based Therapy
Game Plan Overview
For students who resist direct emotional talk, the "Lateral Entry" approach is key. Don't stop the game to talk; weave the concepts into the game mechanics. Use the Match Day Scout Report as a tactical intermission or a "half-time" review.
1
The Tactical Intermission
Instead of asking "How do you feel?", use game breaks (like resetting the board or changing ends) to fill out the worksheet.
Chess/Checkers: "Let's do a quick scouting report before the second game. What moved your pieces out of position this week?"Soccer: Use a half-time break. "Great first half. Let's look at the opponent's tactics. Any triggers we need to defend against?"
2
Metaphor Mapping
Game Event Emotional Concept Losing a Key Piece (Chess) A major trigger or "unforeseen challenge." Blocking a Move (Connect 4) Setting a boundary or using a coping skill. A Yellow Card / Foul A "warning sign" feeling (annoyance/heat). The Endgame Plan Long-term goals and regulation.
3
Questioning the "Play"
Ask questions that frame emotions as strategy choices rather than "feelings":
Avoid This
"Why did you get so angry when you lost?"
Try This
"That play didn't go as expected. What's the tactical reset for next time?"
Defining the "Win"
The "Win Condition" on the worksheet is a commitment. Help the student define a measurable action rather than a state of mind.
Vague: "Be happy."
Pro: "Use 1 Deep Breath play when I'm stuck."
Pro Playbook Cards Activity Pro Playbook Cards
Cut these out and keep them in your "locker" for the big game.
Play: RESET
Deep Breath Reset
Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4. Clear the mind for the next play.
Coping Skill #01
Play: SUBSTITUTION
The 5-Minute Sub
Take a break from the action. Sit on the bench, get some water, and wait for your heart rate to drop.
Coping Skill #02
Play: STRATEGY
Coach Check-In
Find your "coach" (a trusted adult) and tell them you need a quick tactical update.
Coping Skill #03
Play: CUSTOM
Coping Skill #04
How to use:
Carry your top Pro Playbook Card in your pocket or school bag. When you feel "The Opponent" starting to take control of the game (anger, frustration, or stress), pull the card out. It's your secret tactical advantage to get back in the game.
