By Steve Halls, Technical Director, CHARS Youth FC
In the world of football, the quest for excellence is an endless journey, one that requires dedication, passion, and, most importantly, a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. At CHARS Youth FC, we hold the belief that learning is the cornerstone of growth, not only for our young players but also for our coaches and mentors. In 2022, I embarked on my own journey of growth by obtaining the official 'EE Playmaker by England Football' qualification. Today, I want to share the importance of "always learning" and the invaluable insights I gained from this qualification.
The 'EE Playmaker by England Football' Qualification: A Journey of Discovery
The 'EE Playmaker by England Football' qualification is a remarkable endeavour by England Football to empower individuals who are passionate about grassroots football. It's an entry-level course designed to make football accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or experience. As a Technical Director, my pursuit of this qualification was driven by a desire to enhance my understanding of grassroots football and to better serve our young talents at CHARS Youth FC.
What Does the Qualification Involve?
This course is a fantastic introduction to the world of grassroots football. It encompasses various crucial aspects:
Making Football 'For All': The qualification starts with the fundamental principle of inclusivity. It teaches us that football should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, irrespective of age, gender, or ability. Inclusivity is the foundation upon which we build a thriving football community.
Connecting with Your Players: Effective coaching begins with understanding and connecting with your players. This course emphasises the importance of building positive relationships, fostering trust, and creating an environment where players can thrive both on and off the pitch.
Creating Fun Sessions: Football should be fun! The qualification explores ways to design engaging and enjoyable training sessions that keep young players motivated and excited about the game. After all, a passion for football often starts with the sheer joy of playing.
Keeping Football Safe: Ensuring the safety and well-being of players is paramount. This qualification equips coaches with essential knowledge about safeguarding and how to create a secure environment for young football enthusiasts.
Taking Your Next Step: The journey doesn't end with this qualification. It encourages individuals to continue their football education and consider further training opportunities to become even more effective coaches.
The Importance of "Always Learning"
Why is it crucial to maintain a mindset of continuous learning in football? Here are a few compelling reasons:
Staying Relevant: Football evolves, and so should our understanding of the game. Continuous learning keeps us relevant and adaptable to new trends and techniques.
Improving Player Development: As coaches, our role is to nurture young talent. The more we learn, the better equipped we are to guide players toward their full potential.
Inspiring Young Players: Our dedication to learning sets an example for our players. It shows them that growth and improvement are lifelong endeavours.
Enhancing Coaching Skills: Each course, qualification, or training opportunity we pursue enhances our coaching toolbox. It equips us with new strategies and ideas to engage and motivate our players.
Promoting Inclusivity: Football is for everyone. By learning more about inclusivity, we can ensure that every child, regardless of background or ability, has a chance to experience the joy of the game.
The journey of continuous learning is an enriching one that benefits not only ourselves as coaches but also the young talents we nurture. The 'EE Playmaker by England Football' qualification serves as a testament to our commitment to improving grassroots football. At CHARS Youth FC, we're dedicated to fostering a culture of growth and development, ensuring that our players and coaches alike are equipped to excel in the beautiful game. Remember, football is a sport of continuous evolution, and those who embrace the spirit of "always learning" are the ones who leave an indelible mark on the field.
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