Soccer Coach Weekly Issue 59

Our interview this week with Ross Brooks, coach of the U9s-U11s at West Ham United.

Although he has coached at various levels and age groups over the years, he says the foundation phase - ages 5 to 11 - are where he finds the most enjoyment.

"I love that relentless enthusiasm the kids have," he tells Steph Fairbairn. "They will turn up full of energy and really wide-eyed.

"They are so excited and just look like they love playing football with their friends.

“Even if you have had a bit of a tough time or a bad day, you know the kids will completely change how you're feeling just because of their enjoyment and excitement."

I think that will be familiar to a lot of you out there who coach the very youngest age groups.

Ross also discusses how to keep that excitement and enjoyment alive as youth players transition into teenagers and young adults.

The Q&A is an abridged version of the full audio interview, which you can hear as a podcast by clicking the link at the bottom of page 10 or by subscribing via your usual pod provider.

Ben Bartlett, who leads the integration of coach and player development at Fulham, has written again for us this week.

The author of Constraining Football explores, with his usual outstanding depth and analysis of situations, how to ensure you can still teach adaptable skills in largersided practice games. 

Finally, we bring you a session from Sydney-based Amy Shepherd, all about learning to hit effectively on the counter-attack.