What do managers do between jobs? Interview with Dean Holden
Nov 6, 2023
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Former manager Dean Holden discusses his experience between jobs. Topics include his surprise at being sacked after 5 games, his plans for Charlton, the process of looking for new opportunities, and the importance of continuous learning in coaching.
Coaches between jobs often observe other training sessions, benefiting from support and acceptance within the coaching fraternity.
Preseason is crucial for getting players fit, building team chemistry, and fine-tuning tactics.
Continual learning and development, including attending seminars and analyzing games, is essential for coaches to adapt and improve their communication and tactical understanding.
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Insights from Dean Holden's Interview
Former Charlton manager, Dean Holden, shared insights on the challenges of being between jobs as a coach. He discussed the unwritten rule of coaches observing other training sessions when out of a job, highlighting the support and acceptance within the coaching fraternity. Holden emphasized the immense pressure coaches face, especially when judged by the results of a handful of games. He also discussed his preference for coaching over playing and his commitment to giving young players opportunities.
The Importance of Preseason
Holden emphasized the significance of preseason in getting players fit and embedding tactical ideas. He highlighted the value of using the preseason period to build team chemistry, work on tactical systems, and develop a deeper understanding between coaches and players. The additional time provided during preseason allows for experimentation, fine-tuning tactics, and preparing players for the upcoming season.
Constant Learning and Development
Holden emphasized the importance of continual learning and development as a coach. He mentioned attending seminars, analyzing games and coaching methods, and seeking insights from coaches in other sports. By staying open-minded and continually seeking knowledge, coaches can adapt their approaches, improve their communication skills, and enhance their tactical understanding.
Analyzing Game Footage and Developing Players
When analyzing game footage, it is important to focus on both individual player clips and wide-angle match footage. By watching individual clips, coaches can assess specific aspects of a player's performance and provide targeted feedback. For example, they can address issues like timing, footwork, and skill execution. Wide-angle match footage allows coaches to gain a comprehensive understanding of team dynamics and identify areas for improvement. This approach helps in developing players by reviewing footage with them, working on specific skills on the field, and providing repeated practice to enhance performance.
Observing Other Coaches' Training Sessions
To learn and broaden their perspective, coaches can benefit from observing other coaches' training sessions. The ideal scenario is to observe the entire match preparation process, from team meetings to set-piece drills. By doing so, coaches can gain insights into game planning, strategy implementation, and post-match analysis. This comprehensive exposure helps in understanding different approaches to coaching and learning from experienced professionals. Furthermore, witnessing various coaching styles and techniques fosters a deeper understanding of interpersonal skills, leadership, and communication, which are crucial for effective coaching.
