As the final preparations are put in place for the first full season of the SSE Airtricity Under 15 National League, a unique workshop for all coaches involved took place at the FAI National Training Centre. Designed to share ideas, provide insights
As the final preparations are put in place for the first full season of the SSE Airtricity Under 15 National League, a unique workshop for all coaches involved took place at the FAI National Training Centre.
Designed to share ideas, provide insights, and forge a connection with all coaches, the workshop was led by Republic of Ireland U-15 Head Coach Jason Donohue and included a seminar inside FAI HQ before a practical session on the training pitch.
The seminar allowed coaches to learn about all facets of the structure and running of the U15 League with presentations made by FAI High Performance Director Ruud Dokter, Child Welfare Officer James Geraghty and National Coordinator for Underage Elite Football Pat Duffy.
On the pitch, Donohue was able to showcase best practice in coaching U15 players as he used a number of current underage internationals for his detailed demonstrations that encouraged the coaches in attendance to provide their feedback and analysis.
"The workshop was really important in order to build relationships with all club coaches and provide open lines of communication throughout the season, in regards to specific objectives and principles of play which we apply within our international set-up," said Donohue.
"Player identification is vitally important, especially at this age group as the young players are developing physically and emotionally at a rapid rate. With this in mind, regular contact with coaches is crucial in terms of assessing the performance of all players.
"As coaches we all have many objectives, but it is making sure that we assist in helping the players become better people and also help them in educating them in how to maximise their performances. When we work closer together it will definitely benefit all involved and help to create better players for the future."
The workshop proved to be very popular amongst the coaches and should prove useful when they kick off the season with their respective clubs. Further workshops and feedback sessions will be planned throughout the year.
Don't forget to check out the latest episode of Greatest League In The World podcast, featuring Stephen Ward and Neale Fenn plus a debate on playmakers
