Encourage, encourage, encourage-Coaches should encourage athletes after a mistake because that is when they need it the most. If athletes know how to perform the skill, then simple encouragement may be enough. The coach might say, "Tough game out there today-keep up the effort." If the mistake results from a lack of effort, it is appropriate to let the athlete know you are displeased, but be sure to aim comments at the lack of effort rather than the athlete as a person. You might say, "I'd like to see you hustle more" rather than commenting that the athlete is lazy. If the mistake is due to the athlete's not knowing how to perform the skill, or needing to refine it, then corrective feedback is warranted. The key to giving instructional feedback is to recognize poor performance in a positive way that is encouraging and helps athletes improve.