Coaches’ Corner # 1

On Coaching Philosophy and Methods

The game of soccer has become a symbol of universality, an exemplar of the possibility for people the world over to come together to celebrate life, diversity, and community. Soccer is also a life-line for billions of people caught in situations of conflict, catastrophe and tragedy; it is a catalyst for turning rage into joy, despair into hope, and apathy into passion in the hearts of all. Because of these attributes, and with the intention of promoting and extending the sphere of influence of the game, people have sought to master the sport through the development of different philosophies; two of the most prevalent being the European and the South American.

Although we are sure to find a wide range of styles within the European and South American models, we can identify certain characteristics in each that allow us to make such a generalization. In regards to the former philosophy, the most important principle is that of rationality, of dissecting the game in order to study it and then putting it back together in a linear fashion. It subsequently searches for methods that will maximize productivity in terms of energy exertion, speed, power, and, of course, wins that will validate the whole system. One of the many positive outcomes of this system is the accumulation of a tremendous wealth of knowledge with regards to the development of training techniques that help players master many aspects of the game, i.e., solid technical skills, and an industrious tactical approach. On the negative side, however, the European style, because of its emphasis on results, produces a type of play that is rather rigid and mechanical, although no less passionate than any other.

On the other side, the South American system, perhaps because of its geo-political realities, relies less on the scientific methodology, and more on the instinctual drive to have fun by means of the development of flare when it comes to technical skill, and mischievousness in relation to solving tactical problems. This philosophy helps create players that are comfortable, or even happy, to have the ball at their feet, and that try ‘out-of-the-box’ solutions to situations on the field. In this model, winning is seen as an essential part of the game; however, it is definitely not its purpose. The Brazilian phrase that defines soccer as el Jogo Bonito, the beautiful game, is now a classic expression that clarifies the purpose of the game to South Americans: to have fun and celebrate life and community. On the other hand, the problem with South American soccer is a lag in intensity of play at the level of national professional leagues, partly related to the more relaxed approach to the game, but also due to the loss of talent to wealthier regions of the world.

In addition to these two systems, Africa has become the birth place of an emergent style of soccer that is developing players with phenomenal physical capabilities, unique technical skills, and a exceptional type of heroism on the field. Unfortunately, the lack of funds for soccer in many of the nations of this continent, and the many genocidal conflicts that plague it, has halted the development of professional leagues a la par with the rest of the world, thus severely inhibiting the growth of what promises to be a superb model.

Here at the New Mexico Clash Soccer club, we have spent the better part of last year developing a soccer philosophy that will integrate aspects of each system; and, in addition, we are also instituting a coaching methodology that will rely extensively on educational, psychological, and sociological principles to make sure children in our club are treated like children learning the game and not as inefficient professional soccer players, as they are sometimes treated. I am aware that the process will be challenging, to say the least, but the possible great results for the kids, as well as the community, are certainly worth the effort. And we encourage everyone to participate in it.