Speed Bumps

Speed Bumps

I’ve seen players lose confidence because they have gone from being the best player to suddenly dropping down the pecking order. This made me think... How can we begin to help players on their journey and be proactive as coaches rather than reactive?  

Prioritising players – What impact could it have? 

I’ve worked across the talent pathway for several years now and I often see the same players starting every game, getting the most attention during sessions and coaches beginning to talk about what ‘future’ they could have.  

I understand that if you are trying to create players for your first team and/or the Women’s Championship and WSL then there needs to be an element of focusing on the top 2-3 in your group. I also know that sometimes you will come across a player who you know has a special talent and a bright future ahead of them.  

However, I have also seen many players reach first team football and suddenly start to crumble because they are starting on the bench. It may be that they have never experienced coming on as a substitute, which is a completely different challenge to starting a game. The player may also not be the big character in the group anymore and not receive as much attention from the coach(es). All these factors may have a negative effect on that individual's confidence, particularly in the female game. 

So What? 

When working with youth players or coaches in this environment I challenge myself and others to consider how they may put “speedbumps” in the way for players, to help with their long-term development.  Here are some suggestions: 

• Change up the starting 11 every so often, give players the experience of coming on off the bench as well as starting the game  
• Similarly, take players off at key moments of the game and explain that the decision was made for tactical reasons 
• Mix up the leadership groups within your team, allow different players to have specific roles in the team - I.e., Physical lead, kit lead, team bonding lead 
• Don’t be afraid to demand more from players, after all this is what will happen when they play first team football  
• Highlight players' strengths but continue to give them something to focus on 

Another thing to consider when putting ‘speedbumps’ in the way for players is communicating with the parents. For example, explaining to them what you plan to do and why.  This way, they can support their daughter….and you as a coach! 

Next time you are working with your players, take a step back and think about how you can support your players long term across all 4 corners (technically, tactically, physically and psychologically).