The relationship between player and coach is paramount to the success of the individual and team.

During the very early stages of development, (U8-U10) trainers are employed to work with our players/teams during their weekly practice. Training, and the level of training at this very early stage is key to the success of the players development in the years to come. Game day analysis, key substitutions and man management of the players on game day takes second place to training, therefore the knowledge required for this position does not need to be exceptional. Therefore, our teams are designated the most qualified parent to coach the team on game days, take their own practice once a week and work alongside our trainers on a weekly basis. Our trainers however, will also be present at games from time to time, as will our full time staff.

After our players complete their first year with the club, they are once again divided into teams and are selected Premier level down. Training with the club stays at once a week at U9 and is increased to 2 training sessions per week at U10.

Once our players reach U11 a paid coach and trainer is employed for our Premier teams. Their responsibility however is with the age group, first and for most as Head coach of our Premier team and secondly as a trainer of our 2 nd 3 rd and 4 th teams. Training for our Premier team is now increased to 3 training sessions per week. Once with our full time staff and twice with their paid coach. All other teams below our Premier continue with a parent coach, and receive two training sessions per week from the club.

The main reason in regards switching from a parent coach to a paid coach is the increased demand, and level of soccer knowledge that is needed at the highest level. However, a parent assistant will be working along side our paid coaches to help in the development and overall success of the players and team.

With the combination of both parent and coach on the sidelines I feel we have reached the perfect combination, combining soccer knowledge and a pasion for the game, alongside the obvious parenting skills many of our coaches do not possess when trying to relate to such young players.