The Future Game publications outline guidelines for coaches, at all levels, to begin developing players in line with the playing philosophy.
Specialist age-appropriate coaches, with the knowledge and skills to work effectively with specific age-groups, are central to the plan.
Effective youth coaches possess the skill to make the game relevant, appropriate and enjoyable to the players in their care. This can be a complex process, requiring appropriate technical knowledge and an appreciation of the affect that age, stage and level of development have on a young player.
Refraining from imposing unrealistic expectations and methods more suited to older and more talented players accompanies this approach.
In short: coaches should work to understand individual players: the areas in which they require support and the best methods for helping them develop and learn.
It is understandable then, that coaches of senior football, where results are one indicator of coach effectiveness, may adopt different methods than a youth coach who works with a development focus.
As such, The Future Game does not promote any one prescriptive method for coaching the game.
Coaching approaches depend on a whole host of variables, all of which require different responses. The intricacies of adapting method and approach according to circumstance and situation are integral to The Future Game coaching philosophy. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial skills for effective coaches of young players.
