THE LOWDOWN EPISODE #77 - LIFELONG LEARNING w/ CELTIC'S WILLIE MCNAB

“Don't always chase the dream, work hard and things will happen for you”.

Willie McNab is the Head of Children's Football at Celtic Football Club. With 20+ years in the game he has accumulated experience coaching at all ends of the spectrum. It was so insightful to hear Willie reflect upon his wide ranging coaching pathway with plenty of anecdotes and lessons to boot. Priding himself on a football philosophy built on beliefs and values, Willie has helped foster a process driven culture within Celtic's academy. A lifelong learner, he speaks fondly of his time being back in the classroom completing a MSc in Performance Coaching and the importance of being inquisitive and asking good questions. An episode not be missed.

Listen to find out more including;

- A senior coaching debut at 18!

- The interviewing tactics of the great Tommy Burns.

- Building a philosophy beyond the x's and o's.

- Overcoming challenges in the pursuit of creating robust players (and coaches).

- Why having a coaching strategy is a better alternative than a pre described coaching style?

- What is so unique about the environment and the player/coach relationships at Celtic Football Club?

Timestamps;

00:00 - 09:36 - Intro

09:37 - 14:56 - Reflection & Progress

14:57 - 21:53 - Celtic

21:54 - 26:50 - Head of Children's Football

26:51 - 35:31 - Holistic Development

35:32 - 47:50 - Robust players & coaches

47:51 - 57:52 - Lifelong Learning

57:53 - 59:20 - Advice