Hi Ricky,

As with any social setting this will happen over time as your players get to know each other but you can definitely influence and support this as a coach! It is also really important for the coach to create a consistent positive and supportive environment for the players and set the tone to help players develop friendships and things like trust, empathy, and kindness amongst one another that are importance when fostering relationships and team cohesion. 

When it comes to on the pitch I would recommend planning activities that allow players to interact, take ownership and problem solve, all whilst being supported by the coach. For example setting a scenario or challenge for your players, such as using small sided games with different constraints or ways to win/score. 

here is a really great session rom Amy Price that incorporates lots of these elements: https://learn.englandfootball.com/sessions/resources/2022/control-both-pitches

Let me know what you think!

Hi Ricky,

As with any social setting this will happen over time as your players get to know each other but you can definitely influence and support this as a coach! It is also really important for the coach to create a consistent positive and supportive environment for the players and set the tone to help players develop friendships and things like trust, empathy, and kindness amongst one another that are importance when fostering relationships and team cohesion. 

When it comes to on the pitch I would recommend planning activities that allow players to interact, take ownership and problem solve, all whilst being supported by the coach. For example setting a scenario or challenge for your players, such as using small sided games with different constraints or ways to win/score. 

here is a really great session rom Amy Price that incorporates lots of these elements: https://learn.englandfootball.com/sessions/resources/2022/control-both-pitches

Let me know what you think!