The Coaches Network Podcast Episode 377: Kurtis Millan | Individual Development, Player Autonomy & Coaching for Impact
In this episode, Coach Yas is joined by Kurtis Millan, an individual development coach currently based in Sweden at Hammarby IF. Kurtis shares his unique journey from coaching in Ireland and the U.S., to working with players across multiple levels and cultures, combining professional experience with a learner-focused coaching philosophy.
This conversation explores player autonomy, the value of different coaching approaches, and how focusing on relationships and individual needs can create meaningful impact. Kurtis offers practical insights for coaches looking to develop players holistically, refine their approach, and embrace diversity in coaching practice.
💡 Key Talking Points
- Kurtis’s journey: coaching in Ireland, America, Northern Ireland, California, and now Sweden.
- How personal experiences and unconventional paths shaped his coaching perspective.
- The importance of allowing players freedom and autonomy — football is a player’s game, not the coach’s.
- Why every coach brings a unique role and function — there is no single “right” way to coach.
- Focusing on the learner’s needs rather than imposing a coach-centric view.
- Practical examples of how to create impact through relationships and understanding individuals.
- Reflection on a sports psychology exercise highlighting what makes a coach memorable: respect, empathy, and personal connection over tactics alone.
- Encouraging coaches to embrace individuality — for themselves and their players — and to leverage their strengths for greatest impact.
🧠 “Don’t approach the session as a coach. Step into the mindset of what the learner needs. We’re lucky — we get to teach football.” – Kurtis Millan
📣 Whether you’re coaching youth, academy players, or individuals in development roles, this episode highlights the power of autonomy, relationships, and learner-focused coaching.
👉 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
💬 Join the conversation — how do you balance player freedom with structured coaching in your sessions?
#CoachDevelopment #FootballCoaching #PlayerAutonomy #IndividualDevelopment #YouthFootball #CoachingImpact #TheCoachesNetwork
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