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JUNE 2021 | ISSUE 07 | BY SUBSCRIPTION ONLY SOCCER COACH Y WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING

MESSAGE RECEIVED US DEAF WOMEN’S NATIONAL TEAM HEAD COACH AMY GRIFFIN ON THE VITAL ROLE COMMUNICATION PLAYS IN HER CAREER

PLUS • BLIND SOCCER AND THE • ‘YOU PLAY LIKE A GIRL’ ART OF COMMUNICATION - WHY LANGUAGE IN • HOW TO RETAIN YOUR COACHING MATTERS TEENAGE PLAYERS • AND MUCH MORE... WEEKL

JUNE 2021 | ISSUE 07 | BY SUBSCRIPTION ONLY SOCCER COACH Y WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING FROM THE HEAD COACH Communication is key

MESSAGE RECEIVED US DEAF WOMEN’S NATIONAL TEAM HEAD COACH AMY GRIFFIN ON THE VITAL ROLE COMMUNICATION PLAYS IN HER CAREER

PLUS • BLIND SOCCER AND THE • ‘YOU PLAY LIKE A GIRL’ ART OF COMMUNICATION - WHY LANGUAGE IN COACHING MATTERS to successful coaching • HOW TO RETAIN YOUR TEENAGE PLAYERS • AND MUCH MORE... This month’s issue is dedicated insights into what makes a successful Issue 007 communicator. If you get chance, June 2021 to communication - a vital, but sometimes overlooked, skill which is please do also check out our podcast Women’s Soccer key to successful coaching, no matter with Amy – it was really inspirational Coaching website what level, age or even sport you listening to her speak and I took so and monthly digital work in. much away from the time we had with magazine offers On a personal note, it’s an area I’m her. proven, easy to use really keen to develop and a skill I feel Also this month, we’ve got a soccer drills, coaching can make the difference between a thought-provoking piece on the sessions, practice good and great coach. psychology of language when working plans, small-sided We were delighted to be able to USDWNT, Kate Ward, gives us an with girls, information for England- games, warm-ups, speak with Amy Griffin. A former insight into the world of a deaf coach based coaches on how the Football training tips and goalkeeper who has previously working in the mainstream game with Association is working to support their advice. The resources worked with the likes of , the University of Texas El Paso, while development within the female game are created for the Amy is now executive director at OL we are also pleased to share an article and plenty more besides. grassroots youth coach Reign and head coach of the US Deaf from Katie Smith, who works with a following best practice Women’s National Team (USDWNT). blind soccer team in Ohio. Take care and stay safe, from around the world She shares her fascinating perspective Even if you don’t work in these and insights from the with Steph Fairbairn. specific fields, Amy, Kate and Katie professional game. One of Amy’s players on the offer some really great ideas and Hannah

Head coach/editor Hannah Duncan THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS CONTENTS editor@ womenssoccercoaching.com

Production editor Hannah Duncan (head coach): Hannah holds a UEFA B licence 3 LESSONS AT THE DRIVING SCHOOL Andrew Raeburn and FA Youth Award, and coaches in the Youth Development Phase at Develop confidence on the ball in this an FA Women’s National League club. She has taken a representative foundation practice. By Megan Abbott. Writers & contributors Megan Abbott, Steph team to the Gothia Cup, the world’s largest youth tournament, and 4 FA'S CONCERTED DRIVE TO Fairbairn, Carol Fogarty, plays for Whyteleafe in step 5 of the English women's pyramid. RECRUIT MORE FEMALE COACHES Alison Foley, Amy Griffin, Three of those leading the hunt explain. Katie Smith, Paul Wandless, A coach originally from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, in Kate Ward. Steph Fairbairn: north-east England, but now working in London. She is Level 1 qualified 6 MOVEMENT OFF THE BALL Illustrations Three-part session plan to develop Steve Thorp - Artlife and is head coach at Dalmain Athletic Girls FC, where she manages (www.artlife-designs.com), the Under-13s league team and coaches girls aged between 6 and 16. players' awareness. By Paul Wandless. Sutrimo REPUTATION IN COMMUNICATION Paul Wandless: Paul is Under-17 women's head coach at Egersund 9 Pictures Cover star Amy Griffin tells WSC's Steph IK in Norway. He moved into women's football in 2021 following four Reuters, Dave Burt Fairbairn how she gets messages across. Photography, OL Reign, seasons coaching in the men's game in Norway’s sixth tier, as manager Crawley Wasps FC, Ollie Chamberlain, Escolla Futsal, of Bjerkreim IL. 12 FIVE WAYS TO ENCOURAGE Carol Fogarty, Alison GOOD COMMUNICATION Foley, Amy Griffin, Sharon Megan Abbott: 18-year-old Megan is an FA level 1 coach, aspiring to Strategic games and developing leaders - Muxworthy, Katie Smith, Kate go as far as she can in the game. She has four years of coaching experi- Ward, Phoebe Webb. tips on how to turn up players' volume. ence, including FA Weetabix Wildcats, Under-7s coaching and soccer Customer Services schools. She currently plays for Aylesford Ladies. [email protected] 13 COMMUNICATION IN BLIND SOCCER Coach Katie Smith explains how crucial Managing Director Katie Smith: Katie runs blind sport programs in Columbus, Ohio. She clear messaging is when players can't see. Kevin Barrow began coaching blind soccer in 2018 at a camp organized by the United Women’s Soccer Coaching States Association of Blind Athletes before launching her own program. 14 'I CHOSE THE RIGHT WAY TO is published by Green Star Katie also runs a youth program through Ohio State School for the Blind. Media Ltd, MBX124, 19 MAKE AN IMPACT' Moorfield Road, Guildford, Deaf player Kate Ward on how coaching Surrey, GU1 1RU, UK. (c) Green Kate Ward: Assistant coach of the University of Texas El Paso women’s has inspired her and changed her life. Star Media Ltd. All rights soccer team and current captain of the US Deaf Women’s National Team. reserved. Among her off-field roles, she is chair of the United Soccer Coaches Dis- 16 'MAN UP, YOU PLAY LIKE A GIRL' SUBSCRIPTIONS ability Allies Advocacy Group, vice-president of USA Deaf Soccer board. In coaching, it's not just what you say but Please click here or see page 20. how you say it, says Carol Fogarty. Carol Fogarty: Carol has 15 years’ experience as a professional executive and team coach in business and industry in the UK. She is a SOCIAL MEDIA 18 TEENAGE STICKS Level 1 football coach and a Level 2 in volleyball, following a 30-year @soccercoaching Alison Foley discusses how we can try to playing career in the Women’s National Volleyball League in the UK. /womenssoccercoaching retain more of our younger players.

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 2 FUN PRACTICE BALL MASTERY Lessons at the driving school Develop confidence on the ball in this foundation practice. By MEGAN ABBOTT

Set up a playing area relative Place a number of large cones  to the age and ability of your  within the area. Each player players. needs a ball.

Further instructions can be  added to increase the challenge such as ‘amber light’ (turn), petrol Players dribble around the area when station (complete 10 toe-taps at a  the coach says ‘green light’ and stop cone) and ‘swap cars’ (swap a ball the ball on the call of ‘red light’. with someone else).

foot on the ball and ‘Green light’: Dribble. example, “When we are in a smaller space WHY USE IT When players are comfortable with this, you with lots of players around us, do we need This is a great ball-mastery practice for can add in more challenging instructions: big or little touches?” or “Who can show me players to develop confidence in having the ‘Amber light’: Do a drag-back turn. how to do a drag-back turn?”. ball at their feet, as well as incorporating the Try to encourage players to look up while ‘Windscreen wipers’: Pass the ball from side ABCs (agility, balance, co-ordination and dribbling, as well as keeping the ball close to to side with inside of feet. speed). The bumper cars round can also help their feet when space is tight, and bigger players interact with each other while having ‘Petrol station’: Every player must dribble touches when there is space in front of them fun. their ball to a dome cone and do 10 toe-taps to drive into. to refuel. SET-UP ‘Swap cars’: Leave the ball where it is, find ADAPTATIONS another and carry on dribbling. Set-up a playing area relative to the age and Challenge the players by making the area ability of your players. Each player needs a You can progress the session further by smaller to encourage closer control, or ball and the area should have a number of adding in a bumper cars round. Now, all the incorporate new skills, such as a more cones (large dome cones if possible) dotted cars magically transform into bumper cars. challenging turn for an amber light, like a around randomly. To score a point, players must bump Cruyff turn or inside cut. footballs with another player. Make the session easier by starting without a HOW TO DO IT ball. Players can perform star jumps for Players start in the area with a ball (‘car’) at TECHNIQUE petrol station and high knees instead of their feet – and they are going to learn to As you introduce players to new skills, ask toe-taps. You can then progress to having a drive! Players follow instructions from the them questions to keep them engaged, so ball involved but with the simple instructions coach, starting with: ‘Red light’: Stop with they remember what techniques to use. For of ‘red light’ and ‘green light’.

Player movement Ball movement Run with ball Shot

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 3 COACHING FEATURE FA STRATEGY FA's search to recruit more female coaches A concerted drive to encourage more women into coaching is under way in England. HANNAH DUNCAN speaks to three of the people leading the hunt.

Sharon Muxworthy Jo Williams Jodie Whitford-Stark

As part of its new women’s and girls’ a parent, spectator or as a former player. and it was truly inspirational to listen to football strategy - called ‘Inspiring Positive The women and girls’ coaching pathway is women sharing how their journeys in Change’ - says it structured to support females at all stages of coaching have enabled them to help so many aims to have exceptional coaches at every their journey. players fall in love with football. level of the game, who are representative of "For coaches on the performance pathway, "This campaign celebrated the incredible society. we aim to offer the support they need at the work of female grassroots coaches, while To support this, the FA Grassroots Delivery time they need it, so they can navigate their also inspiring more women to begin their Team has appointed eight Regional Coach personal journeys." coaching journey, through highlighting Development Officers (CDOs), focusing on the importance of female role models and recruiting and developing female coaches greater visibility. across England. “We want to inspire "These webinars uncovered a real thirst Women’s Soccer Coaching spoke with from women wanting to further develop and the FA’s Sharon Muxworthy, Jo Williams and and empower a be involved with coaching and, as we return Jodie Whitford-Stark to find out more about diverse female to the grass, we are hopeful we can support how they are supporting female coaches and more females make the transition, with some coaches within the female game... coaching workforce." practical sessions to support the new free online FA Playmaker course." WSC: How do you want to make an impact? JW: "We’ve also launched a Female SM: "We want to inspire and empower a WSC: What support is in place for new, Grassroots Coaches Online Community - a diverse female coaching workforce for the inexperienced or aspiring coaches? safe, virtual space for likeminded individuals grassroots game. SM: "We delivered four weekly regional to connect, share and learn. "We aim to do this by sharing and webinars as we launched our ‘Women "It is hosted by the FA and monitored and celebrating the success stories of the existing in Coaching’ campaign, to coincide with contributed to by our coach development female coaching workforce at all levels, to International Women’s Day and Women’s team. There are several different topic help women realise they already have the History Month. forums where members can ask questions, necessary skills to become a football coach. "The webinars celebrated the journeys contribute to discussions, or even share "We are committed to supporting them to and experiences of women who coach in some of their own ideas. step over the sidelines, whether that be from grassroots. Many give up their time freely "The platform is also used to share

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 4 COACHING FEATURE FA STRATEGY

Sharon Muxworthy delivering a coach education session at Brighton and Hove Albion inspirational case studies and best practice utilise digital and/or ‘on-demand’ resources, support and bespoke content specific to the from around the country. To join the as well as face-to-face practical delivery. needs of the coaches in their community." community, you will need an FA Number "It is hoped this accessible and flexible (Click here >) and then you can sign up to approach will remove any barriers or WSC: How can coaches get involved the group (Click here >). obstacles that may have in the past and find their nearest Women’s High prevented females from engaging. Performance Centre? WSC: What support is in place for more "We will also work closely with local JW-S: "You can find your nearest FA experienced and ambitious coaches? County FAs to further provide targeted Women’s High-Performance Centre by JW-S: "The FA Women’s High Performance CPD support and deployment throughout clicking here. Football Centres are part of the FA’s coach the grassroots game, alongside a digital "There is a real collaborative approach and development system. offering facilitated through England Football clear strategy in helping to support female "There are nine centres across England and Learning." coaches and coaches within the female each centre is based at a leading university in game. their region. Universities are high-performing "This is helping us, as a team of coach institutions and are best placed to support "There is a real developers, to really work together in coaches to be high performing. ensuring we maximise the right type of "The team identify and support talented collaborative support for all, no matter their context. coaches in key areas, who aspire to work in approach to support "So, if you’re an aspiring female coach in the female game with the desire to be the England and want to know more about the best they can be. female coaches..." support the FA provides, contact your local "Since 2017, the centres have been County FA Women and Girls’ Officer and supporting coaches to be better and they can introduce you to your Regional progress. On average, each centre may work JW-S: "The Women’s High Performance Coach Development Officer for Women and with 300 coaches a year. Centres also offer training and support Girls to help you plan your next steps. "The coaches themselves have ownership aligned to coaching in a high-performance "Depending on the stage you are at in your over what their coach development journey environment, such as around the menstrual journey, we will ensure you are signposted to looks like, what they engage with and to cycle, goalkeeping, session design, session the best support for you at that time. what extent." delivery, analysis, reflecting, psychology, "Whether it be your local County FA, FA growth and maturation. Regional Coach Development Officer, or WSC: What sort of support can coaches "This will be offered through a range of Women’s High Performance Centre Coach expect from the FA Regional Coach support mechanisms such as one-to-one Development Officer, we will aim to support Development Officers and WHPC Coach support, group discussions, communities of you together." Development Officers? SM: "The learning and support we can Sharon Muxworthy is FA Regional Coach Development Officer for women and girls in the provide is varied, as we look to meet the south-east region. needs of females across the game, regardless Jo Williams is FA Regional Coach Development Officer for women and girls in the east region of the context in which they coach. Jodie Whitford-Stark is Coach Development Officer at FA Women’s High-Performance Football "A blended approach ensures we can Centre, St Mary's University, London

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 5 SESSION PLAN MOVEMENT Movement off the ball This three-part session develops players’ awareness of moving off the ball to support play, create angles and make intelligent runs. By PAUL WANDLESS

Set up a square playing area WARM-UP  with three players starting in separate corners and one starting in the middle. Play starts with an outside player passing to the middle 1 player and following.

3 2

From here, the player To advance the  passing the ball always  practice, you can looks to move to the spare cone progress to one-touch play. after their pass has been made. One player must always be occupying the middle cone.

WHY USE IT HOW TO DO IT TECHNIQUE This is a fun warm-up, getting players Three players start on different outside Encourage players to think ahead, moving while getting as much contact as cones, one starts on the middle cone. With concentrating on where the next pass needs possible on the ball early in the session. no restrictions on the number of touches, to go, before they receive the ball. players pass and then move to the cone This will help them adopt the best body SET-UP which is free. shape to play a good quality pass at speed, One player must remain in the middle - so if or take a first touch in the direction they This practice requires five cones and four you pass into the middle, you are following intend the pass to go. players, though can be extended to six cones the pass (as seen in the diagram). and five players. Place four cones to form a Also, encourage passers to play the ball to square, with one in the middle. The pass then has to be to a player who is the foot of the receiver which will be most available and ready to receive. The practice helpful for them to complete their next pass. If possible, use tall/dome cones as this can be progressed to one-touch after a few Weight of pass is also important in this focuses movement around the cone as well minutes to improve the speed of the game practice, while quick movement off the ball is as providing an obstacle, forcing the passer and players’ concentration on the next pass. pivotal to success. to focus on the direction of the pass.

Player movement Ball movement Run with ball Shot

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 6 SESSION PLAN MOVEMENT Movement off the ball This three-part session develops players’ awareness of moving off the ball to support play, create angles and make intelligent runs. By PAUL WANDLESS

Set up using half a pitch, with PRACTICE  a server (black), defender (blue), attacker (red) and a goalkeeper.

5

The attacker then 4  makes a forward run to receive a through-ball from the server, while the 2 3 defender makes a recovery The server starts run for a 1-v-1 situation to  with the ball and goal. plays a one-two with the 1 defender, before playing a one-two with the attacker.

(blue) before playing a one-two with the outside of the foot or deceiving with their WHY USE IT attacker (red). The server then plays a body shape. This practice gets players’ feet on the ball as through-ball for the attacker to run onto and well as encouraging quality and timing of try to score. movement off the ball. ADAPTATIONS As soon as the ball is played, the defender This practice can be switched up in a few must also react and get into position to different ways, such as altering the number SET-UP defend 1-v-1 and prevent a shot on goal. of passes before the through-ball is played. Set up poles as the start-point markers for For example, another one-two could be the defender (blue) and attacker (red) just TECHNIQUE played with the defender, or the through-ball outside of the 18-yard box and place This practice gets players on their toes and could be played immediately after the first mannequins as obstacles in-between the two focuses them on providing a good weight of one-two, ensuring players remain on their poles. Use a full-size goal. pass, adopting a good body shape, as well as toes and focused on their movement. developing an explosive movement once the Players can also work off different starting HOW TO DO IT through-ball is played. positions, or work on different combinations Three players - one attacker, one defender, Encourage players to curve their run to stay to create an opening. one server - set up outside the 18-yard box. onside and work on feints, double-feints and For example, the attacker could peel wide to The server starts with the ball. You can also other movements to deceive defenders. receive, creating space for the server to drive use a goalkeeper if available. The server can also work on disguising their between the mannequins and shoot The server plays a one-two with the defender through-ball with a no-look pass, using the themselves.

Player movement Ball movement Run with ball Shot

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 7 SESSION PLAN MOVEMENT Movement off the ball This three-part session develops players’ awareness of moving off the ball to support play, create angles and make intelligent runs. By PAUL WANDLESS

Set up a playing area with a SMALL-SIDED GAME  mini goal in each corner and the area divided into six zones, as shown. Players are split into two equal teams of three defenders and two attackers.

Playing two-touch, with no  dribbling between zones, Attackers can players must move together as a unit.  only score in the Defenders can only occupy two of goal that is situated within the three defensive zones at any one the same zone they are time, while attackers must also be in occupying. adjascent zones.

WHY USE IT the three defensive zones at any one time. So, in the above image, if the blues’ right-sided defender were to move This small-sided game builds on the previous practice and is based into the vacant zone, the left-sided defender would need to be aware around awareness of team-mates’ positions, positions of opponents to move into the central defensive area. and moving across the field together as a team. The two attacking players must also stay in different attacking areas. Players cannot dribble the ball into a different area, so passing and SET-UP movement off the ball are important. Set-up using half a pitch, split into six zones, with a small goal in each corner. Play with two teams of 5-v-5, with each team having three TECHNIQUE defenders and two attackers. Encourage players to consider when to move as a team and to work on different types of movement to deceive defenders, support in- HOW TO DO IT possession team-mates and create overloads. It is a two-touch game, requiring players to move together to score Passing skills are also developed in this practice, with weight of pass, goals. A player can only score from within the same zone as the goal passing to feet or into space and passing to the front or back foot all they are scoring into. The three defenders should stay within two of important to success.

Player movement Ball movement Run with ball Shot

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 8 COACH INTERVIEW AMY GRIFFIN

A reputation in communication As a World-Cup winning goalkeeper, successful youth coach and head coach of the US Deaf Women’s Team, AMY GRIFFIN knows how to get her message across. She explains her methods to STEPH FAIRBAIRN

In 1991, Amy Griffin - then Amy Allman - was “There are a lot of obstacles on the field. If “If you ask the players if I sign, they’ll say a goalkeeper on the US Women’s National someone’s running behind you, for example, ‘heavens no, but she tries’. If players sign a Team squad that won the first-ever FIFA you can’t tell them to drop. If I turn my little bit slower than their normal cadence, I Women’s World Cup. head 15 degrees, I’ve just eliminated six or can understand a lot of it. I’ve picked up a lot Fast forward 25 years, to 2016, and Griffin seven players that can’t even read my lips or and I’ve taken sign language classes. was a world champion again - this time as understand what I might be trying to convey. “I think most of the players appreciate head coach of the US Deaf Women’s National “It’s really hard to make sure everyone’s on that I try, instead of just turning my back and Team (USDWNT). the same page.” talking to the interpreter. I don’t ignore the The intervening quarter-of-a-century was It is a world Griffin was familiar with before fact that I’m learning. spent passing on her deep knowledge and taking the job. Her cousin’s son became deaf “Watching the players off the field, infectious enthusiasm to college soccer integrating in the hearing world, I see how players - including future World-Cup winning many people shut them out because they’re goalkeeper Hope Solo at the University “Communication nervous. of - and the US Under-20s “No-one wants to be forgotten and no-one Women’s National Team. is every bit as wants to be not talked to because someone is But Griffin describes the role of head coach important as food, afraid they don’t know how to communicate. of the USDWNT, which she took on in 2015, as water and shelter...” Just try. Get a pen and paper and include “the best gift I’ve been given”. everyone. It has also given her new challenges in “I think communication is every bit as terms of communication, an area she excels in following illness and it encouraged her family important as food, water and shelter. I really given her playing and coaching background. members to learn sign language. do. The more I understand how important The team is made up of players with “I happened to be in college at the time,” communication is, the more I realise I have a hearing impairments of varying levels. “There Griffin said. “I was really drawn to the long way to go.” are very few people on our team that can animation of it. Griffin’s approach to effective understand everyone,” Griffin toldWSC . “I think the expressions and body language communication hinges on two key pillars - “Some read lips, some sign only, some sometimes tell a deeper story than the words the first of which is clarity in messaging. speak only, some do a smattering of that we say. I love watching - even if I’m “Pick a topic and stay true to that topic,” everything. Some do charades, which would not sure what what people are saying, I can she advises. “If today you’re working on probably be my go-to most often when I get tell the mood behind it and I think it’s really finding the channels in the wide spaces, make stuck. expressive. that all you coach. That way, the message has

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 9 COACH INTERVIEW AMY GRIFFIN

Amy Griffin has been head coach of the US Deaf Women’s National Team since 2015

a lot better chance of hitting home. rather than freezing the game, and showing of that”. Much of the role involves cutting “Before practice with the USDWNT, I’ll tell video clips to the team, with the help of an through what she calls the “white noise” of them what the practice plan is. So when they interpreter. youth sports. take their hearing aids out, or even if it’s via And many of the lessons Griffin learns with She said: “There are a lot of people that sign language, we know what drill is first, the deaf team, she has put into practice with think youth sports needs to be the place what drill is second and the concepts we’re the hearing teams she works with. where you’re promised a college scholarship trying to convey.” or a stage where you’re going to make the The second pillar in Griffin’s communication national team. ethos is transparency. “Being able to show “We can help you with that, but our vision is “Being as honest as possible, and being that it’s a by-product. It’s just a bonus. able to show that things aren’t going that things aren’t “Our club really wants to show that we have perfectly, is important,” she said. going perfectly is a lot of great female role models and a few “If you’re out on the field and something important.” guys that have always thought the women’s that looked great on paper isn’t flowing, game is where it’s at. instead of getting aggravated or frustrated, “We want to create a platform where it sometimes it’s a good time to look inside and Her current role - which she took up in 2019 does not matter what level you are, you will see if there’s something you could be doing after 24 years coaching at the University of still have an amazing coach and you will still differently and share that with who you are Washington - is as executive director of OL get treated like the most valuable person in coaching.” Reign’s academy. our club. Other tactics Griffin employs when working Griffin describes her role as “making sure “Do we get it right every day? Not even with the USDWNT include allowing players a 200 families and players understand our close. But we’re trying.” little more time to solve things on their own mission and vision and want to be a part It’s clear that, for Griffin and the project

‘HOW THE DEAF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CHANGED MY PERSPECTIVE’

As head coach, Amy Griffin led the US “I was the one that was missing all Deaf Women’s National Team to their the information. I was the one that was second consecutive World Deaf Football frustrating people. Championship title in 2016. “I was always confused, I was exhausted The team (picutured celebrating) went and I was trying to figure out what the heck undefeated, beating Russia 3-0 in the final. was going on and people weren’t talking to Griffin offererd a unique perspective on me. I got to live that for three weeks. the 2016 Championships. She said: “We “Because of that, I am so much more were there for three weeks, and it felt like I aware now of all people with a variety of was the one with a different ability. abilities when I have the access and the “Everyone playing was deaf, the refs means to move through life as easily as I were deaf, the coaches were deaf. We were can. the only team with a hearing coach so we “I never would have felt that as deep if I were sort of frowned upon. hadn’t been a coach of this team.”

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 10 COACH INTERVIEW AMY GRIFFIN

‘MAKE SURE THEY SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING’ - AMY GRIFFIN’S THREE TIPS FOR COACHES WORKING WITH DEAF OR HARD OF HEARING PLAYERS

 GIVE THEM A LINE OF SIGHT “Make sure that, when you’re doing a drill, they’re second or third in the line, so they see what’s happening first. They can visually see what you’re trying to create and it doesn’t put them on the spot. Making sure they are in your view when you’re coaching will help bring some calm.”  CREATE SOCCER-SPECIFIC SIGNING “We’ve learned a few signs more specific to soccer. And because of how you would express them on the field, our signs are bigger so everyone can see. We have really quick, animated, large signs. Just a few signs to help integrate the deaf person into a hearing team is super helpful. The kids have fun with it and they learn sign language and then they learn more about deaf culture and the deaf player doesn’t feel so isolated.”  DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS “Little things go such a long way, like not being afraid to ask a player a question – somebody might say ‘I don’t want to make her feel uncomfortable’, but she’s going to continue to feel uncomfortable if you don’t say anything. Sitting down with a deaf player and saying ‘How can I help? What would you like to see?’ means you’re not just going from your knowledge base of not being deaf. The perception of what you think they might need and what they actually need might be completely different.” she’s building at OL Reign, there is so much The second example references two players teenagers into adults. more to the game than winning matches. whose futures in the game are yet undefined. She said: “If we nail the experience, if we “I’m finding the coaches that want to buy Griffin said: “We had a player show up at can teach girls how to navigate the hard into what we’re doing,” she said. “At the older training [with OL Reign] who is home from challenges, how to be good teammates ages, you have to learn how to compete, and college for the summer and wanted to get and good people, how to have tough in the oldest age group, you have to find a back on the field with her former club. Her conversations, how to receive feedback, how way to win, within our style of play. coming back is the best compliment ever. to push the envelope a little bit more than “We want supportive coaches that aren’t they thought they could and get through to throwing clipboards and all that stuff.” the other side, those are the long-term wins. It is a refreshing attitude for someone with “When things aren’t “That doesn’t happen in a weekend or even as many accolades as Griffin. When asked to a season. It happens through the long haul of reflect on what it is like seeing players she has going well, I feel the developing and will never end. I think that’s coached at a young age progress, she offers players know what the best part.” two different examples. And what has she learned from the teams The first is seeing some of those involved it’s like to be me.” she coaches? Griffin refers again to the deaf in her US youth teams make it to the senior team. side, including , while she knows She said: “When things aren’t going well, I from her college days. “We also have a player that’s the number feel like the players know what it’s like to be “You know you’re doing okay when you one keeper in the country and will be a senior me. They just smile and I know they can see still have relationships with some of these in high school. She was training for a World my frustration. players that look back at their time and know Cup that unfortunately she didn’t get to “They’re like ‘you’re fine’ and I just take a that maybe we were one tiny piece [in their compete in because of Covid.” breath and we move forward. I just wish it was careers] and that the environment was good Griffin’s role at Reign will see her have a like that in more places in this world. enough that they learned something while guiding hand in the future careers of many “They give me confidence to just try. Just they were in it.” players. But just as important to her is shaping try.” WSC

“When times are tough, she had such a fine balance of urgency...” HEAR MORE FROM AMY GRIFFIN, INCLUDING HOW HOPE SOLO SPREAD POSITIVITY THROUGH HER DEFENCE WITH HER COMMUNICATION AND BODY LANGUAGE, ON OUR LATEST PODCAST — CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD IT 

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 11 COACHING ADVICE COMMUNICATION ways to encourage good communication HANNAH DUNCAN with tips on how coaches can turn up your players' volume

It is amazing how often, as coaches, we can’t get players to stop chatting while we are setting up, during drinks breaks or even when they should be listening to instructions! Yet when they step onto the grass, conversation quickly dries up and it is more akin to a library than a football pitch. Encouraging players to not only communicate, but communicate effectively, is a challenge faced by many coaches, yet it is such an important component of any successful team. Here are some methods to try in your sessions to turn up the volume.

NO TALKING! 01 It sounds a little counter-intuitive, but by putting a condition on a small-sided Communication between team-mates is vital - but it relies on the right information game which says no player can talk, you might being passed on, and players willing to speak up (Picture: Ollie Chamberlain) suddenly find they are all desperate to give support and instructions. Start by awarding a free-kick to the versions of tag (e,g, two teams playing with a players passing across the course – or get the opposition any time a player communicates ball in hand, players try to tag opponents with players to come up with their own ideas. out loud - and by not allowing talking, it might the ball for a point but are not allowed to move help some players realise the value of it. when in possession of the ball). DEVELOPING LEADERS Of course, there are other ways for players These are easy playground games that 05 While the above examples can be to communicate too, whether through hand players will already know well and have a used in training sessions on an ad-hoc basis, gestures or eye-contact, and this can help good tactical understanding of, so they will the best way to encourage communication them explore these methods more. often naturally start guiding team-mates or within your team is often over a period of time. verbalising their ideas and strategies. Developing a culture within your team, ONLY ONE PLAYER PER where players are given the opportunity to 02 TEAM CAN TALK BLIND FOOTBALL/ lead in different scenarios, is a great way to A lot of teams have one or two players who do 04 OBSTACLE COURSES embed values and build confidence – hopefully the talking for everyone, which can make them This is a great method for educating players resulting in better on-pitch communication. over-reliant on that select few. about effective communication. Take players aside in training and give them A condition of a small-sided game could Supportive comments like “well done” the chance to coach from the sidelines for 15 be that the coach selects one player per or “great shot” are certainly not to be minutes. Some may choose to loudly issue team who is the only player allowed to use discouraged, but we also want our players to direction, others may be more comfortable their voice. This also gives quieter players the give useful information to their team-mates relaying to you, the coach, what they have chance to lead, without being drowned out by – where to press, what pass is on, which observed, while others may want to take a the naturally louder players. shoulder a player is approaching, whether to half-time team-talk. Some players, however, may not be as turn or protect the ball, and so on. A few cones You could rotate matchday captains through comfortable being in the spotlight, so perhaps and bibs are all that is required for this game. the season, giving everyone opportunities to the chosen player could be rotated every five Teams can compete in relay races to add lead. Again, some will be loud leaders and or 10 minutes. an element of jeopardy and really encourage others will lead quietly by example. players to give good, clear instructions to one Players can also be given ownership over STRATEGIC GAMES another. warm-ups, progressions or constraints of 03 Strategy games are fun ways to get One player begins blindfolded with a bib, practices, organising teams for small-sided players talking and issuing instructions. while their partner has to guide them around games, choosing matchday formations or Try noughts and crosses/tic-tac-toe (played an obstacle course. You can add a number of tactics, or any number of responsibilities by two teams racing relay-style to drop bibs challenges, from dribbling a ball, having to which will empower them and help develop onto cones, or dribble balls into squares) or collect certain coloured cones, avoiding other leadership skills.

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 12 COACHING FEATURE COMMUNICATION Blind soccer: a unique art in communication Coach KATIE SMITH explains how crucial clear messaging is when none of your players can see...

Blind soccer is a relatively new sport to the different way. You cannot just show players US, with very few coaches in the country. I skills or drills - without sight, you must be am so thankful to be one of them. very verbal. It is very different from sighted soccer. From directions of a drill to understanding Blind soccer is a 5v5 game, with four blind the defensive form, you as the coach are or visually impaired players who all wear constantly describing positioning of the eyeshades to level out the playing field. The athlete’s body and how they are to proceed goalkeepers are sighted. down the field. Matches are played on an area similar The first thing you must explain is the on the field - with the ball, the players and to a futsal field (40x20m) and there are orientation of the field. Players need to know the guides - blind soccer requires immense sideboards along the length of the field used where they are located within the pitch concentration. It can be difficult to focus for the athlete’s orientation within the pitch. and sideboards, the goal location, and their on the ball, your location and constant Three guides assist with communication formation on the field. movement within the pitch. - the goalkeeper talks to the players in the When describing the width of the field, I But even with this difficulty, the team has defensive third of the field, the coach at will set athletes along one sideboard and tap built an understanding of the communication midfield can communicate in the middle or say the word "here". They can understand needs for each player. The ability of these third, and an assistant coach or sighted guide the distance from the sound. athletes to communicate and orientate is behind the opponent’s goal to talk to the themselves to the field astounds me. offensive third of the field. When we are playing a scrimmage, These guides are crucial for players to "The players' ability there will be a breakaway and the players' shoot the ball, locate it on the field or communication to each other, accuracy of the in case any lose orientation. Most of the to communicate and pass right to their feet and the ability to shoot communication, though, is through the orientate themselves a moving ball without seeing it is incredible. athletes themselves. astounds me..." The best part of the game is that these Teammates are constantly using key athletes are shooting at experienced sighted phrases, like "here", "come to" and goalies. They truly motivate me to work "sideboard", while defenders are required to This is also true with the ball, which has harder as a coach every day. say "voy" when challenging an opponent. This ball bearings in it to make a rattling sound. No matter if you are coaching a blind allows for minimal collisions and enables the As players get more comfortable with their soccer team or a sighted soccer team, attacker to decipher where a defender is. mobility on the field, they learn to gauge the communication is pertinent, not only on the Coaching athletes who are blind or visually distance of the sound of the ball and localize field but off it. impaired means you must communicate in a the direction. I believe understanding your athletes is a We will practice a few drills with them large part of the game. I try to get to know that focus on localizing the sound of the ball every one of my players so when it is time to and staying in position as a team when a play I know where their headspace is within teammate is going after the ball. practice or on gameday. When first teaching some of the skills, I get to know them from their athletic such as dribbling, you use words such as abilities, health perspective, and personally. “caressing the ball”, so players know not to My openness on and off the field allows me kick the ball out too far in front of them and to create a relationship where I am respected lose the location of the ball. and trusted within the soccer pitch. You must describe what area of the foot My athletes know me and know what to they need to use to dribble the ball, along expect on the field. They also know I am there with how far apart their feet should be and at for them off the field, too. what angle. Constant explanation is pertinent Communicating who you are as a coach, for the players to understand what you are your expectations, and your passion for them asking of them, no matter the skill or drill, to succeed will only better you as a coach whether in practice or in game. and allow your athletes to come as their best Because there is constant communication selves to practice daily.

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 13 COACHING FEATURE DEAFNESS

Kate Ward (centre) with US Deaf Women’s National Team head coach Amy Griffin (left) and Joy Fawcett after winning the 2016 Deaf World Football Championship ‘I chose right way to make an impact’

As a player, KATE WARD spent 12 years on the US Deaf Women’s National Team. Now she makes a difference as a coach, giving players she works with a window into her world. Here, Kate tells us her story and how coaching has inspired her...

The sound of a soccer ball being kicked is just because others can hear while I cannot. I look back after 12 years on the US Deaf one of my favorite sounds in the world. I Deafness is often referred to as an Women’s National Team (USDWNT) and I am suppose that is ironic because I’ve been “invisible disability”. I have spent 20 years of so grateful for the journey and what it has deaf since I was six years old. my life learning all the tricks to fit in - how taught me as a person, a player, and a leader, When I was three, my parents learned I was to fake my way through conversations, how and the unique opportunities it has provided deaf in one ear, and hard of hearing in the to position myself in noisy restaurants so me within the soccer world. other. I got hearing aids in both ears and they my ‘good ear’ is facing everyone, how to Growing up, soccer was a way for me to worked well for about three years. When I escape and be a ‘normal’ kid. I was very lucky was six, I realized they were not working well. to grow up in a community, and with teams I went back to the doctor, who was and coaches, who helped me achieve this. unable to do much as my hearing quickly “Soccer has been a In a lot of ways, I think the adults and deteriorated over the next few weeks. All too way for me to prove friends in my life made it a point to be soon, in one month exactly, I became a little discreet about how much thought they put girl with a ‘legal’ disability. my own abilities to into making experiences I participated in I am lucky because I quickly had surgery myself and others...” inclusive. for a cochlear implant, a hearing device I’m grateful my coaches and teammates which has enabled me to function in the in club and college never made it a big deal hearing world quite well. anxiously strain to read lips in loud, crowded that they sometimes had to play telephone There is a common misconception that a places, how to introduce my ‘deafness’ at the to get a message to me on the field or that hearing device automatically restores your right time when I meet new people. they made it a point to face me when talking hearing to a normal capacity. I can assure you And yet, I often think my own disability is to me. this is not the case. largely a societal limitation that has made my From a personal point of view, I think it has I grew up in a hearing world. I have hearing actual sensorial and physical limitation much made me a better player because I must be friends and hearing family. I went to hearing more difficult to understand. more aware of what is going on around me, schools, and played on hearing soccer teams. I am lucky because I’ve found that sports, as I can’t always rely on vocal information And I have spent every day since I was six and soccer in particular, have been a way for from my teammates or coaches. doing everything I could to fit in and “be me to prove my own abilities to myself and Before I ventured into coaching, I had normal” in a world predominantly not like me, others. always wanted to be an ear doctor because I

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 14 COACHING FEATURE DEAFNESS

There is nothing more tank-filling than a fun training session - ’s Saki Kumagai agrees

LEFT: Kate celebrates after winning the 2013 Deaflympics in Bulgaria and RIGHT: Kate coaching at the University of Texas at El Paso

thought it would be the best way to help kids adjusting to that in the future so it’s not an I have been extremely lucky because I have who were growing up like me. issue again. They even secretly learned how been able to build an awesome network in When I finished undergrad with a science to sign “Happy Birthday” and surprised me the soccer world thanks to my time with the degree, I took a gap year to apply for post- with it on my birthday. It still makes me smile USDWNT, and our head coach, Amy Griffin, graduate health care schools, but soon began thinking about it. who I also consider a mentor. to realize that perhaps the greatest impact I This team has made having conversations When I first thought about going into could have was staying in the game that had about my experience as a deaf person easier, coaching, I turned to Amy and - as she the greatest impact on me. and their questions and perspectives on it so often has done for me throughout my My deafness, and my experience with have taught me many things. career - she put me on a path that would the USDWNT, has given me a different I talked to a few of my players when I wrote help me grow and develop in a personal and perspective on coaching. It also has presented this article because I was curious about a professional sense. its own set of unique challenges. question I was asked to reflect on – “Have She helped me get to my first United In a lot of respects, I’m just like any other my experiences impacted my players? Soccer Coaches Convention in 2017, and coach. But, I’ve also had to learn that there Do they have a different perspective on then told me to go to a meeting there to are things I have to do differently in order to communication skills or attitudes on or off the learn more about starting up a group that be successful. field?”. advocates for coaches with disabilities. I can’t always hear the little comments This group has come to be known as the players make, what the referee says, the Disabilities Allies Advocacy Group, and was changes opposing coaches make, or what my “My deafness has started with the intention of advocacy for player is shouting across the field. Luckily, I - and raising awareness of - coaches with am surrounded by people who know that and given me a different disabilities and those who coach players with will relay that information. perspective on disabilities. These people also challenge me to be coaching...” I am proud of how this group has worked intentional in everything I do, to ensure I to provide a platform and community for can avoid moments where my deafness disability soccer in the US. This year is big negatively affects my coaching. Some of them cited having more patience for us, as we are working to release an online I have experimented with different ways to in communicating or being intentional or coaching curriculum that has been in the give instruction – do I explain it in the huddle adaptable in how they communicate. But the works for more than two years, to promote and take questions there or do I set them up most meaningful feedback I received - and our first ever Disability Awareness Week with first and have them raise hands if they have I was told not to let it go to my head! - was United Soccer Coaches in September. questions? The hand-raising has been vital for that their experience of having a coach who I love coaching, and I love the game of me, because I am often unable to understand is deaf has made them want to make the time soccer. I love the highs and lows, the winning, where sound is coming from. and effort to learn others’ stories and have the long bus rides, the goosebumps after an It has been special to build this relationship more patience and adaptability with other overtime goal, and everything in between. with my players in that I have seen them people’s situations. But what I love most about this game is the working to learn what does and doesn’t work Perhaps I chose the right profession to have ability it has to change lives on and off the for me, and then I get to experience them an impact, after all. field. My own life is one of those.

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 15 COACHING ADVICE COMMUNICATION ‘Man up, you play like a girl...’ ...and that’s no bad thing. Coach CAROL FOGARTY Carol Fogarty explains that what we say and, more importantly, how we say it can have a big impact on our players

Before diving into the world of soccer and what it means for female players psychologically, it is worth sharing a perspective on the impact of the wider social environment in which they live on a daily basis. This environment, like the club and the pitch, has an important role to play in shaping a woman’s sense of self, her identity in the wider world and the values on which she builds her attitudes and behaviours. In 2001, renowned sociologist Geert Hofstede conceived the “Masculinity Index” - essentially, how national cultural values and mindsets could be distinguished in terms of the degree to which they represented masculine or feminine behaviours and ideals. In so-called ‘masculine’ cultures, people - whether male or female - value Coaches should be aware of every touch point in communication and competitiveness, assertiveness, ambition, understand their effects on the individual (Picture: Ollie Chamberlain) and the accumulation of wealth and material possessions. In so-called ‘feminine’ cultures, people value relationships and quality of life or prioritised. In turn, this potential lack of But this is not about playing the game and a focus on collaboration. being true to one’s self may lead to feelings differently, this is about working with It is probably no surprise that the UK and of uncertainty, self-esteem issues or a sense both masculine and feminine social US were ranked highly in exhibiting more that ‘something just doesn’t fit’. values, attitudes and behaviours to ensure masculine cultural values, at 9th and 15th they are appropriately represented and respectively. interconnected. Girls living in the UK and the US are This will allow women (and men) to tap interacting in a socio-cultural system on a “Part of a coach’s into more emotional and collaborative daily basis that prioritises the ‘masculine’ job is to make the personal values and motivations on the pitch experience. that support their own sense of what it is to This is important to be aware of because environment fun and be themselves. women in these countries are already having support players.” Collaboration as well as competition, to adapt to a pattern of attitudes and through a positive learning environment, behaviours that may subconsciously favour will also play to ‘soft power’ and what it more masculine ideals - in football terms, the When you think of traditionally ‘feminine’ means to create a psychologically safe space. use of league tables, trophies for “man” of sports, soccer doesn’t exactly spring to mind, Working collaboratively fosters an agreeable, the match, performance pathways and so on. given its physicality, historical links to male calm, and gentle set of behaviours. This can lead to women suppressing or participation and strong competitive nature As a coach, part of the job is to make the hiding some of their more feminine values, - as opposed to gymnastics and dance, for environment, and the experience of being as they are not as socially evident, accepted example. there, fun, memorable and engaging and

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 16 COACHING ADVICE COMMUNICATION

Coaches are responsible for developing an environment players can enjoy and using language to support development and self-esteem

to support players - particularly women - in point in communication and nurturing the and “boss the defence” is probably aiming knowing they belong. right behaviours as coaches will have an to encourage motivate or guide. It may, Ask yourself - is it common to hear players enormous effect on how to get the best from however, land as “you think I’m lazy”, “I’m not talk about their club in terms of on the field both female and male players. doing a great job” and “I don’t want my team friendliness or togetherness after the game? The language used, the support of peers mates to think I’m bossy”. Do players enjoy coming to training because and family and the use of female role models Whether it lands badly or well is the they learn from each other, trust and feel are all important contributors to a woman’s responsibility of the coach, in understanding supported by their team mates, and feel part self-esteem. They also help to promote a how to get the best from their players and to of their team? Is it easy to make friends here? self-belief that what they are doing and how communicate in ways that tap into all values Many coaches or players will have heard they are doing it is socially and personally whether they are linked to competition, shouts of “man up!”, “grow some!” or “you acceptable. collaboration, winning, friendship or just let a girl get past you” at some point. something else. Becoming aware of whether these phrases, The coach’s superpower in this instance which the misguided consider merely is great questions. They help to prevent attemps at encouragment, have a negative “How something assumptions, to understand whether effect on girls is worth exploring. takes off from the information has landed in the way it was Fear of negative evaluation and social coach’s mouth isn’t intended and to enable the players to own anxiety (“I worry what others say or think their insights and to build solutions in a way about me”, “I worry others don’t like me”, always how it lands...” they feel comfortable with. “I worry I might be teased”) are more Great questions include “When did you prominent in girls than boys and therefore have the most fun in the session and why?”; need to be considered as part of the This starts with how coaches communicate “Who supported you the most this evening coaching conversation. with their players. How something “takes off” and how?”; “What brought you the greatest Understanding the player’s perspective on from the coach’s mouth isn’t always the same sense of achievement?” and “What three what it is to be a soccer player and for what as how it “lands” with the recipient. things would you like to be better at?”. purpose is critical in ensuring their needs are Our values and internal motivators are very Women don’t play football because they met and their fears are worked through. much our own, and subconsciously influence want to be more like men, or more masculine Valuing each player as a person in their how we think, act, react and interact with the - they play football because they like football own right will enable coaches to see their world around us. This is true for all genders and what football gives them. uniqueness and potential and support a and is how many misinterpretations arise in Being clear as a coach as to what that communication style that best supports all walks of life. entails for each player will ensure you tap into them. In football, for example, a coach who the very best of the individual for the benefit In other words, being aware of every touch shouts “get out wide”, “put some effort in” of the team.

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 17 COACHING ADVICE TEENAGE RETENTION

Teenage sticks Seven in 10 children in the US quit organized sports by the age of 13 and girls give up at six times the rate of boys. ALISON FOLEY digs below the figures and asks how we can retain our teens in soccer amid competition

A 2016 poll from the National Alliance of it competitive? Well, fun has many aspects Instead, find the moments when they Youth Sports showed that 70 per cent of but let’s focus on four: are doing something praiseworthy, such as children in the US quit organized sports by trying something new, mastering a skill they the age of 13. 1. Make her feel valued had been working on, or even exhibiting It is also said that girls give up at six times Girls tend to doubt their abilities and self- leadership or compassion. the rate of boys and that only seven per worth. They worry about fitting in. They Let each player know that you, the coach, cent of high-school athletes move on to play worry about failure. Girls need a safe and are looking forward to seeing them at the sports in college. next practice, the next game, and the next I wrote How To Coach Girls with Mia season. Your enthusiasm will help fuel theirs. Wenjen as a manual to help coaches – both “What is the secret professionals and volunteers – and to share sauce to keep girls 2. See her as a whole person more than two decades of experience in Your female players want to be seen as a coaching young women. in sport? It’s simple, whole person, not just as an athlete with The positive aspects of keeping girls in but elusive - fun...” skills. sports are numerous - from positive body They want you, the coach, to know and image and higher grades to lower rates of appreciate the different aspects of their lives pregnancy and high self-confidence. nurturing environment where they can feel - from their other extracurricular activities There are also benefits that help in comfortable trying new things. and their sense of humor to their social their careers, from learning teamwork and The easiest way to make female athletes relationships. leadership skills to access to networking feel valued is to connect with them on a This takes time and coaches often have opportunities. personal level. Find a way to praise each and that in short supply, but it’s the key to So what is the secret sauce to keep girls in every player during each practice. earning trust. And this trust is necessary for sports? It’s a simple but elusive one - fun. Girls are very hard on themselves; they interpreting the coach. What does that mean? How do we don’t necessarily need someone to point out It is easy for female players to interpret a translate “fun” into a sport while still making what they are doing wrong all the time. coaches’ words or actions, even if incorrect

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 18 COACHING ADVICE TEENAGE RETENTION

or unintentional, as “coach doesn’t like me” or Many sports have try-outs and cuts. Also, intramural (try a new sport or one that is just “I’m not coach’s favorite”. very few sports are open to beginners. meant for silly fun) to club to junior varsity to There was a Kindergarten teacher at our If the girls you coach are young, be open to varsity. school that everyone wanted their child to having them play different sports. Multi-sport College is also a great time to try have. She had the gift of making each of her athletes tend to have fewer injuries, burn out something new that athletes might not have students feel like they were her favorite. less and learn from being in different roles, time or access to before such as squash, rock Taking the time to build a relationship with depending on their ‘main’ versus ‘fun’ sport. climbing, Zumba, or rugby. each player tells her that she’s your “favorite”. The transition from high school to college We want our players to feel like sports is is also a time when girls stop playing sports. always an open door for them because it is. 3. Help her form connections with her Remind your players of the many options It is a gift that keeps on giving. And you, the team-mates to participate in sports in college from coach, are the giftor. The social aspect is another reason why sports are fun for girls. Playing different sports and being on different teams gives them the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends that might be outside of their usual social circles such as the school that they attend. These social connections can last well beyond the season. Try using ice-breakers at the start of every practice, during warm-up. Something as silly as asking questions about their favorite ice cream flavor, or if they have a pet, can help them connect with each other. Another thing to be mindful of is breaking the team into smaller groups. Girls might already be in groups due to carpools that might be formed based on a city or school, Alison Foley is the former Boston College and this can lead to cliques. head women’s soccer coach, the most Girls tend to stand next to the people successful coach in BC history, youth that they know. Instead of letting girls form National Team scout, and the celebrated their own groups, have them count off. This author of two books; ‘How To Coach Girls’, naturally mixes up girls with ones that they and ‘The Elusive Full Ride scholarship’. don’t know. She currently helps high-school athletes with the recruiting process. 4. From teen to college You can find Alison at As girls transition from middle school to foleyathleticadvising.com or email her high school, there can be a drop off in sports [email protected]. participation.

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 19 next month Developing a philosophy

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SEVEN-PAGE SPECIAL FEATURE COACH INTERVIEW TACKLING A TABOO MIND THE GAP SOCCER AND THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE: EX-USA PERFORMANCE THE PSYCHOLOGY THAT SAW HOUSTON CHIEF DAWN SCOTT, YEOVIL UNITED, FITRWOMAN AND MORE DASH OUTFLANK THEIR NWSL RIVALS  The Women’s Soccer Coaching podcast, taking

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GENERATION GAME A WAITING GAME MANCHESTER UNITED ACADEMY MANAGER CHARLOTTE HEALY BLACKBURN ROVERS’ GEMMA DONNELLY ON WORKING “I loved the first issue...I used some of the material for sessions this week.” LEADS 12 PAGES OF FEATURES DEDICATED TO YOUTH COACHING HARD FOR 17 YEARS TO BECOME AN OVERNIGHT SUCCESS

INCLUDING • MAN CITY FOUNDATION • THE DANGERS OF EARLY PLUS • MENTAL HEALTH FOR • ’S PHASE SESSION PLAN SPECIALIZATION COACHES AND PLAYERS JAMES CLARKSON ON • PREPARING GIRLS • WILDCATS: THE SCHEME COUNTER-ATTACKING “I was very impressed.” • FEMALE-SPECIFIC FOR ADULT SOCCER INSPIRING YOUNGSTERS NUTRITION TIPS • AND LOADS MORE! “Excited to see where the publication goes and look forward to the content.”

WomensSoccerCoaching.com Issue 007 WOMEN’S SOCCER COACHING 20