The coach holds a dynamic and vital position within the Footy club. They represent players, officials and supporters as the figurehead of the club.
The coach must be a leader. Continually analysing, studying, planning and assessing the game as it develops, whilst being aware of the capabilities of the team. The coach must strive to bring out the best result possible for the group of players under their direction and develop the team as both a group and as individuals.
At every level of Footy players are aware of the need to be fit, skilled and versatile. Players are expected to be able to adopt attacking and defensive roles regardless of the positions they play. It is the responsibility of the coach to ensure the development of these attributes to a level equivalent to the age and ability of members of the team.
The coach must be able to communicate well with their team and create the correct environment for players to perform at their optimum level.
ROLE OF THE COUCH
During the year the coach may be called upon to fill a variety of roles. These can include:
- Manager dealing with a wide range of players, officials and supporters.
- Leader assigned to organise training, match day events and team morale.
- Teacher instructing football skills and team tactics.
- Selector involved in the planning and selection of the best team to represent the club.
- Communicator providing clear instruction and feedback to the team and individual players.
- Psychologist dealing with various individual personalities within the team.
- Public Relations expert representing the club at official functions and community activities.
- Student continually seeking to upgrade their knowledge of the game.
It is imperative that your coaching style and philosophy take into account the age and ability of your team.
COACHING PRINCIPLES
Fundamentals do apply to coaching, irrespective of the age group and level of competition. The coaching principles that follow should form the foundation of your coaching style.
Start with Yourself
Be organised
A good coach is well organised, is enthusiastic and establishes with their attitude the correct work ethic within the team. Training sessions and match day arrangements are organised well in advance. The coach must be well presented, look the part and be in control at all times.
Be yourself
Don’t be over concerned by other coaches or parents. Remember it’s your team and you have the ultimate responsibility for their performance.
Use assistants
Surround yourself with competent people you can work with. Take time to appoint an assistant coach and team manager. You must be comfortable with these appointments and will often rely on their advice during the year. Ensure each has a clear job description outlining their role and responsibility. Communicate with your assistants regularly and listen to their opinions and suggestions.
And plan:
1. Set Ground Rules
Outline to your players your expectations on all aspects of training including:
- training days
- start times
- policy for late or non arrival
A policy should be also be adopted on recommended behaviour off the field.
2. Develop Club Spirit
- Encourage togetherness both on and off the ground.
- It is important to promote a family club, therefore attendance at club functions can be beneficial in team building.
- Attempt to mix socially with all members of the Footy club.
- On the ground, highlight ‘team play’ efforts rather than individual efforts. A team-lifting effort such as a goal scored from a good passage of play should be strongly emphasised.
3. Respect the Individual
- A coach working with a large group of footballers must understand that each player in unique in terms of temperament and personality and will exhibit varying behaviour.
- Players must be treated as individuals. Ensure all players are recognised and treated equally.
4. Fundamentals
- The basic skills of Footy must be continually taught and practised. A coach must reinforce the basic possession and disposal skills.
- A team plan is of no value if players are unable to kick, mark or handball.
5. Team Plan
The coach must formulate a team plan. This plan is comprised of:
- Basics – that is, specific rules for forwards, midfielders and backs.
- Tactics – these are the plays that vary from game to game depending on the weather, ground conditions, the opposition and the players at your disposal.
6. Player Responsibility
- Encourage more experienced players to take on extra responsibilities at training and on match day.
- Generate involvement and support for your role by seeking their opinion on opposition teams and your game plan.
7. Communication
- The well-prepared coach provides continual feedback to the team and individuals within the team.
- All players need feedback. The coach must avoid the tendency to talk to the better players and ignore low achievers.
- Good communication is the essence of successful coaching. The coach must be able to deliver a message and at the same time listen to the players.
8. Player Discipline
- Problems will occur during the course of a football year. Whether it be a late arrival for a vital game or disregard for club property, it is advisable to be well prepared.
- A set of guidelines must be established early in the season to deal with a player breaching the rules.
- It is preferable to allow player input into the rules, making them ‘the team’s rules’ rather than simply dictated by the coach.
- If an infringement does occur listen to the player’s explanation, explain that team rules have been broken and take appropriate action.
9. Know and Care for the Game
- The serious coach will have a genuine love for the game.
- The successful coach will be a student of the game striving to learn from other coaches, relevant articles and videos as well as coach education courses.
- Experience teaches us how to improve. If approached openly and enthusiastically, coaching as a profession offers great fulfilment and personal satisfaction.
10. Planning
- Planning is the key to successful coaching. A yearly plan is essential for coaches if they wish to optimise the development of their players.
- The coach must evaluate the team’s current standing and plan the coaching year, and individual sessions, to achieve optimal benefit.
11. Safety
- It is the responsibility of the coach to provide an environment that does not expose the player to potential injury.
- To be effective in this area the coach must be aware of appropriate warm up activities, the importance of hydration, rest and recovery, as well as safe playing and training facilities.
12. Goal Setting
- Goals must be set for individual players and the team.
- These must be realistic, flexible and achievable.
- Team and individual goals should be assessed regularly.
SUMMARY
- Understand the important role of the coach.
- Recognise some basic principles involved in coaching.
- Identify the personal qualities of successful coaches.
- Establish a code of behaviour for your coaching year.
