Modern Soccer Coach Podcast

Gary was recently joined by former Al Ettifaq FC 1st Team Lead Analyst, Raymond Shearwood. Before his role on Steven Gerrard's staff at Al Ettifaq, Raymond spent nine years at Liverpool coaching and working from the starting age groups to the Under 21's. In this interview, Raymond shares unique insights on what made that Liverpool culture so special and how they blended football development with leadership and life skills. Raymond's journey itself is somewhat of a hybrid approach as he discusses the role of tactical analysis alongside coaching, as well as the decision behind his move to Saudi Arabia to work with Steven Gerrard.

Coaches: Register for MSC Set-Piece Webinar Below: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/442/k3g3rbgy Gary is joined by former Sacramento Republic head coach Mark Biggs. Mark discusses the difference between the idealistic world of coaching and the realistic version. He shares insight around how he used data to drive the player profile at Sacramento, changing the culture, playing a 13 year old in a pro game and the importance of training intensity. As a USSF PRO License holder, Mark is just as passionate about coach development and gives a lot back to the next generation with some great advice on how to manage your own coaching career. Thank you for listening! Please 'leave a rating' or comment if you enjoy it!

Coaches: Register for our FREE MSC Set-Piece Webinar with Michele Aragona below: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/442/k3g3rbgy This week, Gary is joined by Head of Coaching at Wellington Phoenix, Joshua Neff, to discuss the Director of Coaching role at youth and pro clubs. Joshua shares his experience at the New Zealand club of building out a methodology but also aligning it with a 'coaching culture' that is built around trust, honesty, passion for the game, and growth mindset. He discusses the unique environment at Wellington Phoenix and how the coaches work alongside one another to help the players and the club progress. Having also experienced MLS academies, Joshua has some some words of advice for coaches in the US who are working through the sometimes challenging role of a Director of Coaching and where you can get high quality professional support.

Don't miss our 4-2-3-1 Webinar on March 7th. Register Below: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/product-page/msc-webinar-coaching-the-4-2-3-1-system-principles Last week there was a huge announcement in the world of youth soccer with the English FA confirming it as a game format next calendar year. So what does that mean for development? What will the landscape look like moving forward? How are coaches going to prepare for this? There is no one better equipped in world to talk about this topic than Peter Prickett. He has written extensively on this subject in his best-selling 3v3 Methodology books, as well as supporting coaches and working on the grass himself. In this week's MSC Podcast, we speak to Peter about the details of the announcement and look at ways that clubs and coaches can maximize this opportunity to make a difference in youth development.

Mark Robinson, a seasoned coach at Chelsea U21's and AFC Wimbledon, shares his expertise in elite player development. He dives into how environment influences player growth and the vital trust between coaches and athletes. Robinson discusses unique training strategies, like sending youth players to games without a coach to encourage independence. He emphasizes fostering a positive training culture and innovative approaches that boost creativity. His insights on balancing tactical strategies with individual strengths make for a captivating listen!

In this engaging discussion, Kevin Nicol, Head Coach at Mjøndalen and UEFA Pro Licence holder, shares insights on balancing structure and creativity in coaching. He emphasizes the importance of player confidence and the need for coaches to communicate tactics simply and effectively. Nicol highlights the power of connection between coach and player, advocating for freedom within a tactical framework to foster creativity. He explores how collaboration enhances player development and the significance of adapting coaching styles in diverse environments.

Ciarán McArdle, co-founder of XL Soccer World and author of 'Soccer of Success,' shares insights on leadership drawn from the soccer field. He discusses the critical life lessons learned through sports, like resilience and mental strength. Ciarán delves into the challenges of transitioning from coaching to entrepreneurship, emphasizing perseverance and time management. He also explores leadership styles in football and their relevance in business, and addresses the importance of holistic growth in sports and education.

Yiannis Tsala, Head Coach at FC London and Director of Methodology, dives deep into the complex world of football actions and interactions. He discusses the critical balance between player autonomy and coaching guidance, emphasizing individualized feedback for improved decision-making. Yiannis highlights the importance of context in training, urging coaches to adapt to team dynamics and opponent strategies. He also explores how storytelling and advanced analytical tools can enhance coaching effectiveness, paving the way for better player development.

Dominic Casciato, head coach of Union Omaha and back-to-back USL League One champions, shares his rich coaching journey. He discusses the critical balance between structure and individuality in coaching, revealing how personal backgrounds shape coaching philosophies. Casciato emphasizes the importance of flexibility and emotional intelligence in adapting to challenges. He also highlights the blend of data-driven approaches and genuine connections in fostering player development, showcasing how creativity thrives amid competition.

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.