The power of randomization in sports-decision making can help a team or coach gain an advantage in the most competitive of leagues. Freakonomics guest economist/strategist Ian Ayres provides a realistic look (interpreted as "against human nature") on the merits of randomization to keep the other side guessing. The article is called "Why Don’t Sports Teams Use Randomization?" I LOVE the chart with the decision variables of whether to kick or go for it in professional football.
As a volunteer high school rugby coach in relative low competition with the rest of the league, focusing on execution of the fundamentals and teaching athletes the basic laws of the game tends to win more games than strategies. Plus I would probably be laughed off the field by the other coaches as well as the players if I toted a laptop computer out to the sidelines every Friday game night. But USA Rugby, if you're out there, I got the skills if you're looking for a coach for the USA Eagles international travelling side.
As a volunteer high school rugby coach in relative low competition with the rest of the league, focusing on execution of the fundamentals and teaching athletes the basic laws of the game tends to win more games than strategies. Plus I would probably be laughed off the field by the other coaches as well as the players if I toted a laptop computer out to the sidelines every Friday game night. But USA Rugby, if you're out there, I got the skills if you're looking for a coach for the USA Eagles international travelling side.
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