Alex, embrace it. You won’t regret it mate! What advice are you seeking?

Hi. Thank you. I’ve been the co-coach for the past two seasons. I originally decided to be take a more active role in this team, due to my step daughter who is the team’s goalkeeper. I am not wanting this team to fold, as I’ve been involved with this team for over 5 years, as a parent and a co coach. 
Now I’ve been asked if want to manage to the team on my own, and the other coach doesn’t want to assist me, means I will be doing this on my own. I am anxious at the thought of having g to do it all. 

Hi Alex,

Fantastic that you're thinking of stepping in to manage the team! Sounds like there is a great opportunity to build on what has already been achieved. The great thing about football and being the manager, is that you get to do things your way. Whilst it may be daunting, it can also be a brilliant opportunity. I remember back in 2013 when I got my first coaching role, I was asked do I want to assist with the under 15's or be the manager of the under 11's. I chose to manage the under 11's so that I could do things my way. It was daunting, I made mistakes, I didn't get everything right but it allowed me to grow as a coach and I gained confidence, experience and learnt as I went along. I was pretty new to coaching back then, whereas you've already been involved for two seasons so this experience you've gained will stand you in good stead. See this as an opportunity to build on what's already been achieved by putting your own stamp on things. 

Perhaps there may be another parent who is willing to assist or lend a hand? 

Is there anything in particular you're anxious about? If you can be more specific, I'm sure people on here can help!

Good luck,
Adam. 

Alex Combrink 

Hi Adam,

I’m feeling a bit anxious about setting up training sessions that effectively include the goalkeeper. Last season, I worked with the goalkeeper while the other coach focused on the outfield players. Now that I’m coaching and managing the team on my own as we move into the under-15s, I want to ensure the sessions are well-structured.

With only one hour of training per week, I’ll need to plan sessions around specific themes that can span a few weeks before moving on to a new focus.

I’d really appreciate any advice on how to plan and manage these sessions to ensure the entire team gets as much time on the ball as possible.

Thanks!

Alex. We have all been there. Set up your session and realise you have forgotten the goalkeeper and then you have to adjust your session as fast as you can! I would see your goalkeeper as another outfielder in some sessions. But ensure your sessions are able to start or finish with the goal keeper. Play more game based with direction instead of generic possession based sessions. Let us know how it goes 

Hi Alex, certainly an exciting opportunity! Your involvement will be crucial in inspiring our young girls to continue their growth within the game. From a safeguarding point of view, I definitely recommend recruiting an assistant to support you during training and match days. The FA guidance strongly encourages a minimum of two over 18s per team who meet the qualification requirements (Safeguarding, DBS, First Aid, Level 1). It is also an obligation for club accreditation. In the event of an injury, it is beneficial to have someone addressing the situation and another to monitor the other players. It is difficult to juggle both. For more information, please feel free to drop me a message, but your Club Welfare Officer will be able to provide more club/case specific guidance. Alternately, your County FA Safeguarding Manager can provide advice too. Best wishes!