The power of imagination and play can both make for a more enjoyable experience for players and also help to develop their skills.

In this episode, FA regional PE officer James Riches returns to share his journey so far and to explore how we can develop skilful players through PE. James draws from his experiences to provide valuable advice for aspiring coaches and teachers, particularly for those who work with children.

James has taken on a wide range of teaching and coaching roles, including as a coach for Leeds United. He shares how he’s used the transferable skills gained from these experiences to add to his current role. We learn about the vast differences between teaching and coaching and the power that PE has in helping to develop skilful players. James also shares advice on managing difference and developing players across all four corners of The 4 Corner Model, not just their technical and physical abilities.

Covered in this episode -

• What does James enjoy most about coaching? 
• The key attributes and skills that go into making a transformational coach
• The differences between teaching and coaching and what to keep in mind when taking on both roles 
• Tips for teaching groups that differ greatly in ability 
• James’ biggest success story 
• How can coaches use PE to promote each section across the FA’s 4 Corner model to develop multiple skills at once? 
• How the STEP framework works to help design sessions that support all players 
• Ideas for games that teachers and coaches can use in their sessions