The GROW Model: A Framework for Coaching Conversations
- RIZE
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 22
Every player talks about goals. Few know how to turn them into action. That’s where GROW comes in.
The GROW model gives you a structure to take vague ambition and shape it into a real, trackable plan. It’s simple. It’s powerful. And it works.
G = Goal — What do you want to achieve?
R = Reality — Where are you right now?
O = Options — What could you do to get there?
W = Way Forward — What will you commit to next?
How to Use GROW With Your Players
1. Set the Goal (G)Players’ goals are often too broad or unrealistic. Your job is to sharpen them.
“What exactly do you want to achieve?”
“What would success look like?”
“How will you know when you’ve hit it?”
Make sure it’s their goal, not just yours. Ownership matters.
2. Understand the Current Reality (R)Get clear on the truth of where they are now. Not criticism — clarity.
“What’s happening right now?”
“What have you already tried?”
“What strengths can you lean on?”
“What’s in your way?”
The more honest the reality check, the stronger the plan.
3. Explore Options (O)Now it’s about brainstorming paths forward. Let them lead before you step in.
“What could you try?”
“What would happen if you did nothing?”
“What have you seen work for others?”
“What feels most realistic for you?”
Ownership fuels commitment.
4. Decide the Way Forward (W)Clarity turns into commitment here. They need to leave with something specific.
“What are you going to do next?”
“When will you do it?”
“What obstacles could show up, and how will you handle them?”
“How will you track progress?”
This step ends with an actual plan — not a wish.
Sharpen It With SMART
Once you’ve walked through GROW, use SMART to lock it in:
Specific — What exactly are you working on?
Measurable — How will we track it?
Achievable — Is this realistic?
Relevant — Does it connect to your bigger goals?
Time-bound — When will it get done?
SMART makes the progress visible, and visible progress builds belief.
Example: GROW + SMART in Action
Player Goal: Improve 3-point shooting
Goal (G): “I want to raise my 3-point percentage from 28% to 35% this season.”
Reality (R): “Right now I’m at 28%. I rush shots when defenders close out.”
Options (O): “Work on shot prep, add reps under pressure, study space-creation.”
Way Forward (W): “Add 100 contested threes to every practice for 8 weeks. Track weekly.”
SMART makes it clear:
Specific: 3-point percentage
Measurable: 28% to 35%
Achievable: With consistent work
Relevant: Critical to their role
Time-bound: 8 weeks with check-ins
That’s no longer a dream. It’s a blueprint.
Make Goal-Setting Part of Your Culture
Don’t limit it to pre-season talks. Build it in.
Pre-season: GROW + SMART sessions with every player
During season: Regular check-ins, small adjustments, recognition of progress
Post-season: Reflection and reset for what comes next
Great coaches don’t just set goals. They create systems that keep players accountable to them.
Take This With You
“A goal without a plan is just a wish.”
“Growth is built through clarity and consistency.”
“Goals aren’t just about improvement — they’re about alignment.”
“Make goals visible, trackable, and meaningful.”
