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As coaches, we design practices to build skills and install systems, but often a player’s progress is stalled by invisible barriers that have little to do with the drill itself. These limiting factors are the unseen forces holding an athlete back from their full potential. They can be physical, such as chronic fatigue from poor sleep, inadequate nutrition, or nagging injuries that prevent explosive movements. More frequently, however, they are mental. A lack of focus, a pervasive fear of making mistakes, or low confidence can cause a player to perform at a fraction of their true ability, turning a dynamic practice into a hesitant, low-energy session.

Recognizing these limitations requires a coach to observe beyond simple execution. It’s about noticing the player who avoids their weak hand, the one who looks confused but won’t ask a question, or the athlete whose effort dramatically fades halfway through practice. Is the issue a lack of comprehension, a gap in fundamental skills, or an external stressor? By identifying the root cause—whether it’s physical readiness, skill deficiencies, or mental blocks—a coach can shift from being a drillmaster to a true developer. Addressing these core limitations is the key to breaking through performance plateaus and fostering resilient, engaged, and constantly improving players.

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