Coaching Handbook: An Action Kit for Trainers and Managers

Coachee in football

Robert King

The situation

Robert King has been coached by a variety of different football coaches, including his father, Norman.

The process

Coaching takes place during practice sessions “ they begin with a warm up, followed by exercises aimed at working on ball skills. During the session, exercises gradually build up in terms of difficulty. The last part of the practice session is a ˜conditioned game, such as a game during which everyone has to touch the ball once. Some of the exercises are designed for a specific position.

Often, as well as explaining the exercises, the coach will demonstrate what needs to happen. Players are given feedback during and after the exercises.

Positive aspects of this approach

Robert thinks that the advantage of this approach is that the coaches demonstrate what has to be done “ this makes it easier to carry out the tasks and focus on getting the exercise right rather than trying to understand the exercise itself. Given that football is a team game, being coached together enables each player to gain knowledge about the other positions .

Difficulties with the approach

Some of the exercises involve techniques that Robert has not fully grasped yet and therefore he is conscious that he is not always able to do the exercise properly.

Not all the players are involved in all the exercises, which means that often players have to stand about watching.

Top tips for coachees

• Prepare yourself before the coaching session.

• Listen to what the coach is telling you.

• Practice is good “ you play the way you train.

Advice for the coach

• Plan what you want to do before the session.

• Be confident and clear in what you are trying to teach.

• Demonstrations are helpful.

• Try not to overcomplicate the sessions.