Soccer Coach Weekly Issue 76

Every sports team is made up of a diverse range of personalities. At every level of the game, from the elite to the grassroots, it is part of a coach's job to get a tune out of your players' varied notes.

At youth level, where teams tend to be banded by age rather than ability, the differences between players can be more pronounced.

While some will be outgoing and look to gain a coach's attention or approval, others will be a little more subdued, hang back and stay out of the limelight.

Integrating those players can be a challenge but Michael Curless, PhD - a clinical psychologist and USSF A licensed soccer coach - provides some advice on coaching the introverted members of your team.

Steph Fairbairn has written a piece on the creation of team values and the importance of allowing the players to set your culture.

It comes after a fascinating exercise with the U14s at her club, in which she asked them about the behaviours they want to see from team-mates, coaches and parents.

Steph has also spoken to Dan Bratcher, coach of Cambridge City Ladies, to explore his passion for self-improvement and learning.

The Q&A is an abridged version of the podcast, which you can hear by clicking the link on page 10 or by subscribing via your usual pod provider.

Finally, we have three separate practices this week which touch on transitions and passing.