Modern Soccer Coach Podcast

Gary is joined by UEFA Pro Licensed Coach, Mick McDermott, to discuss his experience alongside Carlos Queiroz and Iran at the 2018 World Cup, managing Glentoran, and working in Saudi Arabia. Mick provides ideas and methods for coaches on navigating the hiring process and managing ownership, as well as elite level players.

Last week we took our first MSC road trip to visit Richie Ryan at FC Cincinnati Academy. Richie has a fascinating football journey, coming through Sunderland's academy system and then making his first team debut in the big derby game with bitter rivals, Newcastle United. After stops in Belgium, League of Ireland and the US, Richie recently moved onto the coaching side of the game working at FC Tulsa (USL) and now at FC Cincinnati. In the interview, we speak to Richie about the environment at FC Cincinnati, the support that players need in the modern game, plus his unique experience playing under Alessandro Nesta!

Join Anthony McCann, a personal coach specializing in Adult ADHD and burnout recovery with the Irish FA, as he dives into the pressure cooker of coaching. He addresses the hidden struggles coaches face regarding mental health and the stigma surrounding vulnerability. McCann emphasizes the importance of authenticity in leadership while navigating emotional challenges in high-intensity environments. His insights challenge conventional views on vulnerability, offering a fresh perspective on creating safe spaces for coaches to thrive.

How does Tactical Periodization and Sport Science connect? This week on the MSC Podcast, we are joined by Ian Coll, current Head of Performance at Las Vegas Lights (USL). Ian has extensive experience in the professional game working with distinguished clubs such as Hadjuk Split and Glasgow Celtic. He is also experience in Tactical Periodisation, learning from the great Vitor Frade as a Masters Candidate in 2024. You can watch the full webinar below. Use code MSCYOUTUBE for 10% off. https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/product-page/msc-pre-season-workshopc

This week we are excited to be joined by Philadelphia Union U18 head coach Peter McDonnell. He discusses what makes the MLS club so unique when it comes to player development and how the club has created alignment from first team to all youth levels. The complexity of professional development is also a key topic as Peter shares how players balance academics, social media, and the rollercoaster nature of the game, in their journey. A true student of the game, Peter also talks about his experiences with a variety of different coaching course and the benefits of each one.

This week on the MSC Podcast, Gary is joined by Temisan Williams to discuss youth curriculums and academy methodologies. Temisan has coached professionally at 3 Premier League Academies (including Arsenal FC, Tottenham FC. Fulham FC) and also is the founder of the Excellence Academy. In this interview, Temisan discusses the effectiveness of a curriculum, how it can be shaped to suit the demands of the modern game, and what coaches can do to help facilitate the process. Read more about Temisan below: https://www.linkedin.com/in/temisan-williams-msc-bsc-83a40931

We are joined by Real Salt Lake (MLS) assistant coach, Anthony Pulis. With extensive experience in the game, as well as both UEFA Pro Licence and US Soccer Pro Licence, Anthony has worked as both head coach with Miami FC and St Louis FC. He's also held assistant roles at Inter Miami and Orlando City. #coaching #soccer #football #anthonypulis #success #journey #coach #manager #mls #podcast #podcasting #podcaster #modernsoccercoach #soccercoachingdrills #interview #garycurneen #football #futbol #futebol

We were recently joined by Ged Quinn, Academy Director of Barca Residency Academy in Arizona. The Barca style of play has become world renowned over the years, but how do you teach that methodology at the younger ages and, more important, what does it look like when an individual professional pathway is the ultimate goal. Ged provides outstanding insight into the coaching methodology at Barca Academy and how it fits into the landscape of the United States.

Michael Hamilton, AFC Wimbledon Academy Manager, is passionate about empowering young players in their development journey. He discusses the importance of player-led games for fostering self-management and the unique culture at his academy. Hamilton emphasizes actionable club culture and innovative coaching strategies that embrace risk and adaptability. He addresses the role of parenting in balancing safety and independence for developing resilient athletes. This conversation reveals how character development and leadership skills are essential for success in football.

David Tenney, High Performance Director at Austin FC and a graduate of the Official School of Tactical Periodisation, shares valuable insights into coaching. He distinguishes tactical periodisation from periodizing tactics, emphasizing personalized training. The conversation explores the mental load athletes face, the importance of cognitive challenges in decision-making, and balancing physical and emotional demands. Additionally, Tenney discusses how understanding cultural coaching differences can enhance training methodologies and player development.