AFL clubs are constantly on the look for ways to improve their teams.
Adelaide is no different and this season the Club is working with linguistics experts from the University of South Australia to focus on player communication.
On Sunday’s episode of The Crows Show we go behind the scenes as assistant coach Matthew Clarke works with senior player Josh Jenkins and young forward Elliott Himmelberg to analyse how they speak on field.
“Communication is absolutely critical particularly for our younger players as it often doesn’t come naturally,” Clarke said.
“What we try and reinforce is understand the game plan but then start communicating it to your teammates.”
University of South Australia’s Dr David Caldwell explains how more experienced players use different language than their younger teammates.
“More than 60 per cent (of Josh Jenkins communication) is commanding and clearly instructing, if we compare this to one of the less experienced players the way they use language is a lot more mixed,” Dr Caldwell said.
“Experienced players express a lot more instructional language, they ask fewer questions, they are much more certain and clear. There is even less repetition.”
Also on the show, we chat with Bryce Gibbs as he prepares to take on his old-side Carlton for the first time.
Mark Bickley discusses why goal kicking in the AFL is as bad as it has ever been in 2018.
We flashback to a classic Brett Burton mark than some referred to as the mark of the century.
And take a look at one of the more underrated stats in footy: metres gained.
For the full interviews and more behind-the-scenes insights tune in to Channel Seven at 1.30pm on Sunday for The Crows Show, brought to you by Foodland.
The show will then be available on our website and App. It is also replayed nationally on 7Mate early in the week. Please check your local TV guides.