The CUE Method for Clear Game-Time Communication

Communicating quickly and effectively is essential on sports teams. But, how can you do it in English?

Think about the last time you were in a high-pressure game or competition, and had to speak English.

Were you able to communicate clearly and confidently with the race officials, your coach, or your team? Or did you hesitate, struggle to find the right words, or misinterpret what was said?

To communicate effectively in sports, I've said it before: you need to be quick.

You have to be able to react fast, give clear, concise instructions or responses, and also feel confident in your language skills to protest a call in the moment, if necessary.

So, to help you communicate better under pressure in English in sports, you can use the CUE Method:​

Clear – Simple, direct words that everyone understands.​

Useful – Phrases that apply directly to real game situations.​

Efficient – Quick and concise to keep up with the speed of the competition.

Here are five common sports phrases that follow the CUE method that you can use to level up your game-time talk:

• I’ve got your back –Or commonly shortened to “I got you”. This phrase reassures your teammates you’re in position to support them.

• Switch! – This is a universal cue used in many sports from sailing to rugby for quick changes in dynamic situations, like in positioning, responsibility, or a strategy.

• Man on! – Use this to warn a teammate that an opponent is closing in. It helps them react under pressure and protect the ball in sports like football/soccer or basketball.

• Yours/Mine- This call signals responsibility for the ball in sports like tennis or volleyball, and prevents hesitation or collisions.

• Drop Back- Use this in cycling and other endurance sports to signal a teammate to move into a position behind you or a group to draft or save their energy.

How to Use These Today:​

1. Pick one phrase and practice saying it out loud before your next training session. (I'm a total advocate of speaking to yourself!)

2. Pay attention to when and how often these phrases are used in live competitions and games.

Which phrase do you see yourself using in your sport? Leave a comment and let me know!

Curious to know a call or phrase in English that you use in your sport or in your language and is not on this list? Let me know, and I’ll include it in a future edition!