What is a model performer?

A model performer is a highly skilled performer from your sport. They possess many skills and attributes that are desirable. We can use these performers as a means to bench mark ourselves against and to aspire towards. 

A model performer is someone who displays a high level of performance in their activity. The performance levels of a model performer can reflect a single factor or a range of factors. For example, a model performer may be identified based on their display of physical fitness factors and emotional factors when performing in football. It is, however, rare to identify a model performer who displays exceptional performance in all four factors.

A model performer could be:

• an elite level performer

• a coach/teacher

• a teammate/classmate

Identifying a model performer is useful for the following reasons:

• Comparing performance to a model performer can help identify strengths and development needs.

• The model performer provides a visual representation of skills/behaviours that a performer can aim to emulate.

• Observing a model performer can provide inspiration and motivation for the performer, since the model is demonstrating what can be achieved in selected factors.

Identifying an appropriate model performer is a personal decision. The model performer should be identified based on the activity they compete in, as well as their ability to display behaviours associated with high performance in each factor.

Examples of Model Performers

Model Performers and the four factors

A model performer in the mental factor:

• controls their anxiety levels during high pressure situations

• is able to focus during difficult moments

• solves a range of problems and selects, then executes decisions effectively

Emotional model performer

A model performer in the mental factor:

• controls their anger during moments that others may find frustrating

• has full confidence in their abilities and can demonstrate this in a range of situations

• is resilient enough to bounce back after negative experiences

Physical model performer

A model performer in the physical factor:

• executes a range of skills and techniques to a high standard on a consistent basis

• has high fitness levels in a variety of different fitness components

• is tactically astute in both offensive and defensive situations

Social model performer

A model performer in the social factor:

• communicates clearly and in a variety of different ways during performance

• is a good team player in good and bad moments

• shows respect to opponents and officials

Why use model performers?

Model performers can be used for:

• Motivation 

• Comparison 

• To set targets 

• To compare our data/test scores to theirs