Soccer Coach Weekly Issue 160

Welcome to your latest issue of Soccer Coach Weekly!

This week, we have got three practices for you to take inspiration from.

Two are focused specifically on the role of the full-back – the first focuses on encouraging full-backs to make supporting runs, and the second builds on this, working on shooting and crossing skills.

The third, a three-part session from Arsenal development coach Deane Gavin, works on reactions to transitions, with particular focus on the technical elements of scanning, movement, body shape, and passing quality.

Elsewhere in this issue, we bring you a piece from West Ham United Women’s Jenny Coe, who reflects on the concept of 'coaching by gender’.

It’s a brilliant prompt for us all to think more about some of the biases we may bring into our coaching.

Finally, as we move into the final week of Pride month, we’re resharing a piece I wrote on being an ally to LGBTQIA+ players. 

Much like Jenny’s piece, it’s mainly about creating safe spaces and positive environments, and ensuring that we consider each player in our care as the individual they are. 

If you take anything away from this issue, I hope it’s that!