A person's identity is a unique phenomenon, the result of infinite variables exclusive to each individual, and as such no two people are truly the same.
Age, race, religion, gender, and wealth are but a few of the factors which shape us and as such is it not important to know who we are before trying to help others discover themselves?
Like millions of others around the world I have been engulfed by the style of FC Barcelona, mesmerised by their intricate one-twos and domination of possession, inspired by their complete belief in themselves and in their system, but as they themselves declare - this is THEIR way not THE way.Replication will rarely yield the same results as the original. Studying and learning from others is an integral process in an individual's development but it is vital to adapt and reinvent ideas to make them suit your beliefs. As the proverb says: "it is better to be a first rate you then a second rate somebody else".
Before trying to absorb and implement another's ideas into your own philosophy it is imperative that you first take the time to truly digest the concept, to analyse whether it is compatible with your expectations, and ultimately to ensure you believe in the path you are walking before asking others to follow it.
Coaching to some is a hobby, to others a job, but for the romantics in us it is an art. The challenge of assisting the development of an individual, regardless of their status in the game, is a captivating and in some cases all-consuming task; but to truly make an impact, to inspire and make your players trust your advice you must have an unwavering belief in what you are asking them to do.
Doubt is easily detectable and extremely contagious; it is to a footballer what blood is to a shark, one scent of it and you are at risk of being devoured. Doubting yourself or your message will inevitably lead to players doubting you, and once this happens the road to redemption can be a long and lonely one.
The key to success in football is trust. As a coach you must trust in yourself, in your ideas, in your message, in the process, and ultimately in your players. Trust that development will lead to results but also that the former is more important than the latter.
As a coach my philosophy has been shaped by many things, both negative and positive, and as such I would expect it to differ to my colleagues near and far. I have an intrinsic motivation to progress and develop as a coach, to help my players exceed my own limitations as a player, to not only be the best me I can be but also to help them be the best version of themselves. I read a statement made by one of my coaching heroes that sums up why I am in this profession and would like to end by sharing it:
“That fantastic spark of inspiration, the joy of that single instant, is why I’m a coach.” - Pep Guardiola
No comments:
Post a Comment