The Soccer Coaching Process - Shorter Version

In its most general terms performance soccer coaching is the process to improve an individuals or teams performance in a competitive surrounding, which is achieved through rationally planned and implemented programmes.

If forced into its most simplistic, the coaching process can be broken down into 3 cyclical stages: assessment, planning and implementation.

Assessment

The coach must look at the performances of those under their guidance and evaluate what their strengths and weaknesses are. Not just as individuals but also as partnerships, units and a team.

Planning

The coach must decide on what soccer sessions they will conduct for their players. For these sessions to be appropriate and relevant, the coach should plan them in advance based on their findings in the Assessment stage.

Implementation

The coach should then be able to conduct and execute the soccer sessions they have planned.

In the 3 stages outlined above to see that it is possible to dissect them further to discover, other factors and requirements that contribute to the successful completion of the coaches role. Such factors include: Expert or Specialist Knowledge: How can any of the stages be successfully completed without the coach possessing any relevant knowledge? Man Management: How can the sessions be conducted and be effective if the coach has no man management skills?

To be a good coach an awareness and appreciation must be gained as to all the elements that contribute to the overall soccer coaching process. Any individuals that do not embrace the idea that coaching is a process and still view their roles as isolated elements will never reach their full potential or help their players reach theirs.