The benefit of observing other coaches

I am still fairly new to coaching and I am learning from others all the time. It is important for me to observe both the good and the bad in other coaches and to really focus on what I can learn from each individual.

I take every opportunity I can to talk to those in a similar position, as I believe collaborating with other coaches and taking time to learn from them can really help take my coaching to the next level and make me the understanding coach I always wanted to have when I was a player. 

When observing, I like to take notes on how coaches might challenge the more advanced players in a group by giving them their own tasks throughout the practices or games.

This could be a simple thing such as using their weaker foot when dribbling or shooting, or ensuring they make a certain number of passes so all team-mates are included. 

I also enjoy observing how coaches tailor their sessions to include the goalkeepers. 

It is all too common for goalkeepers to turn up to training and be treated like an outfield player. 

I am always conscious of getting the goalkeeper as much specific training as possible. If that is not possible, it is important to adjust a practice so they can be included. 

Each coach I have observed who actually includes the goalkeeper does this in different ways and it is always good to get little bits of knowledge from each one to add into my own sessions.

 

"It is always beneficial to notice the good and the bad in others’ coaching styles..."

As important as it is to observe and implement the good in coaches, it is also important to observe the bad, and what not to do or how not to treat players.

I have previously had coaches who insisted that female players should be treated the same as male ones. They don’t see what the difference is when it comes to football. 

This taught me that each player should be treated as an individual, and that different players respond to praise and criticism differently. Getting to know your players and the way they work can make a world of difference.

Learning from others has been vitally important to the stage I’m at with my career.

Watching how other coaches interact with players, and how they keep them focused as well as having fun throughout training sessions, are qualities I always try to implement in my own coaching.

It absolutely pays off to work with and learn from other coaches. But it is always beneficial to notice the good and the bad in their coaching styles.

It is also important to evaluate your own coaching on a regular basis to see what you did well and what could be improved.

Ensure each session, and your own attitude, is tailored towards those you are coaching and really take time to get to know players as the individuals that they are.

This can help them feel like they really are a part of a special team with a great coach guiding them along the way.