Modern Soccer Coach Podcast The Potential Drawbacks of Play-Practice-Play Methodology with Ian McCall
Jan 16, 2025
Ian McCall, a former Queens Park academy coach, discusses the Play-Practice-Play methodology and its potential drawbacks. He argues for a balance between free play and structured training to align with player development. McCall critiques the risks of rigid exercises and emphasizes the importance of adaptability in session design. He also explores how limited resources can drive creativity, contrasting experiences in youth soccer. Additionally, he advocates for a long-term, thoughtful coaching curriculum tailored to evolving needs.
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Balancing Free Play and Structure
- Free play can be beneficial, but it can feel forced in training.
- Consider players' developmental needs and stimulate them technically, physically, and cognitively.
Skillful Coaching and Free Play
- Understand a coach's reasoning for incorporating free play.
- Discuss alternative approaches and consider player development stages to maximize effectiveness.
Context-Rich Games
- Design context-rich games to stimulate specific skills.
- Instead of repetitive drills, create scenarios that encourage desired actions, like short passing leading to finishes.