Rochedale Rovers Football Club

COACHING OVERVIEW
By Brian Hastings D.O.C. (Queensland State License)

Coaching Philosophy

The following content will promote and outline the philosophy of our training program. The content will introduce a junior development coaching system that will allow young players to reach their true potential both on and off the playing field.

At Rochedale Rovers Football Club, we are committed to the development of individual players. The success of our club is based upon the principles of Unity, Trust, Humility, Discipline, Superior Effort and Pride and Passion. These principles, our staffs’ commitment, and our complete analysis of every component of the game make it possible to turn the game you dream about into a reality.

Dedicated to total player development, we offer a highly comprehensive program. Football (Soccer) is a game that requires the mastering of many skills and techniques and is unique from all sports wherein the head of the player is not only used for decision making but also as a technical skill with the ball. Technical ability is the platform for any young athlete to perform at their highest possible level.

We let players realise that we are never to assume that we are better than anyone else, but look to become more efficient than our competitors and to work harder than anyone else to achieve success.       

To be successful at the number one sport on the planet, no matter what level one will wish to achieve, factors such as physical condition and mental attitude are as important as having the technical and tactical skills development training.

We will build a solid foundation encapsulating the abovementioned factors to maximise the potential of each individual player.

We will improve the awareness and decision making of the player using training techniques that simulate game type situations (both pressurised and passive,) to ensure that the player is stimulated both physically and mentally. The game based training techniques promote fun and enjoyment which we believe are essential to maintain the interest and desire of the player.  “For every day I miss training……………………….…someone else is getting better than me.” These philosophies will help the individual, not only on the field, but in their day to day life as well.   

We simplify our program into the four “A’s so that it applies to kids from 5 yrs old to 17 yrs old and beyond. 'A – Attitude A – Aptitude A - Ability A - Ambition'. We emphasise that all four A`s need to be evident in a player in order reach the goals that they wish to achieve.    

At RRFC we will help each player to set realistic, measurable goals (both Proximal – short term and Distal – long term), that will be difficult to achieve but not so difficult that they will be unobtainable. This goal setting principle is essential so that the player will avoid any disappointment and loss of motivation if goals are not met.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

BALL CONTROL: - PASSING AND CONTROL

Possession, First Touch, Body Shape, Positioning and Movement   These sessions should set the scene by distinguishing the various types of passes available. These sessions must consist of drill activities starting simple and working towards more challenging tasks. The session should explain where on the field these different types of passes are used.

• wall pass
• overlap
• changeover
• penetrating

The sessions should consist of bringing the ball under control, on the move and under pressure     Fisrt touch and vision. Knowing what and where you want to go before receiving the pass.

• soft touch                              
• cradling the ball
• controlling under pressure
• controlling and moving off in one motion

DRIBBLING WITH THE BALL

When to dribble and when to bring in other players. These sessions should demonstrate the difference between dribbling in confined spaces and running with the ball in less restricted areas. The session should consist of:  ·        

• changes in direction·        
• stop starts        
• feints·        
• running with the ball slow/fast        
• change of pace   

STRIKING THE BALL

These sessions must cover the various methods used when striking the ball. Correct striking technique and the key factors will be covered and explained.         

• To enable the player to strike the ball with both feet to achieve optimum power and accuracy.  

HEADING

These sessions needs to cover the correct techniques used to head the ball. ·        

• Using the correct techniques to achieve accuracy and power required in different situations under pressure.·        
• Which part of the head makes contact with the ball.·        
• How to head the ball off to an angle.·        
• Remembering not to close the eyes.·        
• Trying to meet the ball at the highest possible point ie. Timing and jumping.       

TACTICAL and MENTAL AWARENESS ·        

Helping players to improve their vision in both attacking and in defensive situations.  ·        

• Identifying and creating space by way of movement on and off the ball.  ·        
• Anticipation – Reading the play. Identifying the situation and options available and reacting in an effective and efficient manner. ·        
• Identifying, analysing and reacting to the opposition’s strengths and weaknesses.    

CONCLUSION

We will endeavour to improve each and every player that puts his or her trust in us. We vow that with the right commitment we can help them to achieve their goals. We will use all the support necessary to make them proud and confident within themselves at what they will achieve. I will explain the level and tactical standards that need to be achieved at each age and division by making contact with each coach individually. Coaches meeting are difficult to arrange and I find it easier if I help with sessions and use email to answer questions.

BRIAN HASTINGS “ Aspire Today……..Inspire Tomorrow”