Conversation #19 coaches often treat every error as a problem requiring their correction. A player misses, and the intervention arrives immediately: “Prepare earlier.” “Meet the ball further in front.” “Keep your racket face steady.” But one missed ball is not evidence that a player lacks technical or tactical skill. The error might have emerged because the player: Misjudged the ball’s flight. Attended to less useful information. Selected an unsuitable intention. Was pressured by their opponent. Had limited time, space or stability. Sometimes the miss itself provides enough information for the player to adapt their next attempt. If the coach immediately supplies an answer, the player loses the opportunity to detect, evaluate and reorganise for themselves. Over time, constant correction can also make errors feel threatening rather than informative. This does not mean coaches should ignore persistent problems. If an error keeps repeating, investigate the pattern rather than c...