Nothing beats the feeling of scoring a goal (Gavin Ellis/TGSPHOTO)

Essex FA Youth Award Modules set to start

Coaches of young players at all ability levels who wish to become more knowledgeable and effective when teaching them are invited to participate in specific FA Youth Award Module 1 workshops.

The Youth Award Modules allow coaches to understand “as much about the players as we do about the game” but only a handful of spaces remain on the schedule which starts in Collier Row on Friday March 8.

Essex FA Coaching Development Officer Gary Piggott recommends attendance at the forthcoming workshops at the Forest Row Centre to broaden the knowledge of the local grassroots football workforce.

The 32-hour course, for candidates aged 16 years or over, is for anyone with a minimum of a Level 1 Certificate in Coaching Football, or qualified teachers, who have also completed the Age-Appropriate Introductory Module.

There are generic strands relating to teaching and learning, motivation and self-esteem which are suitable for most coaches.

Piggott believes it’s vital to remain in touch with the people delivering sessions every week to keep them abreast of any modifications.

He said: “We’re moving towards letting kids learn for themselves more rather than just having a coach telling them what to do all the time.

“The introduction of ‘age-appropriate’ courses means our ethos has changed.

“Sometimes we spend a lot of time focusing on drills and matchdays, but it’d be refreshing if we stepped back and looked at each player’s needs individually. “The great thing about this module is that we take into account what motivates them to play and how can we build their self esteem and manage differences in age, experience, ability and attitude.

“They’re given scenarios to try and solve for themselves but the coach is always on hand to help if they can’t.”

There are three modules, which combine to form a wider qualification equivalent to the FA Level 3, titled Developing the ‘Environment’, the ‘Practice’ and the ‘Player’ and they’re aimed at coaches of all levels who wish to extend their knowledge of coaching the 5-11-year-old player.

The modules provide practical sessions and advice for coaching this age group and increase a candidate’s knowledge of how to incorporate The FA’s ‘4-Corner Model’.

To book online, visit www.essexfa.com and click on ‘Book Courses’ or call Maryanne Dennis 01245 393070.