This term has been something of a discovery phase for my group in many areas. During college camp I was able to meet and get to know some of the boys in a fun and challenging environment. Since the regular college training sessions have begun I have been able to get a much better understanding of what the group dynamics will be.
I am working with a group that incorporates the players for the Berowra 13A squad playing in the Northern Suburbs Football Association. I also have a small number of boys that play for other clubs too, who add further strength and intensity to the training sessions. Getting to know the mix of characters has been an interesting task for me during this term.
The biggest football clubs in the world are made up of varying character types. Players with flair, speed, strength and leadership are always made a focal point via interviews and advertising. The wonderful game of football needs many types of characters to make it exciting, unpredictable and addictive.
When I look at my group of players I certainly don’t see a Messi or a Ronaldo or even a Cahill… yet! They’re certainly all unique in their own way, just like all the kids in our college. I have kids with flair and also kids with definite ambition to have more flair. I have noticed players in my group who have good leadership qualities and some who may have an inkling of being good leaders. Strength and speed are characteristics that are still developing with most of the boys, but I have some very dynamic and speedy players who will certainly leave many defenders behind in their tracks.
Overall, the group I’m working with has the ability to become a very entertaining and exciting team to watch as they tackle the 13’s competition this season. They have proven to me that their football is progressing well but there is still so much more to learn. As a group, myself included, the learning curve has been constant as we try to become a closer unit and learn to play as a team. Combining so many types of dynamic characters to make a team that will click and work for one another is a task that all coaches have on their agenda at all times.
Term 2 will see our group return to training with the U13 season already underway and many talking points to raise. The team will be working towards fine tuning those football situations that challenge them on game day, both as individuals and collectively. I know we’re all looking forward to the term break, but I’m also very sure we’re looking forward to seeing our dynamic team of players put their ever growing football skill-set on the playing field.
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