The weather was much better than for the 2009 Event with a mix of sunshine and overcast conditions and thankfully no rain. The Facilities prepared and used were again to the highest standard as we come to expect from Chippenham Town Council. For each session players were involved who were recruited from local clubs. We thank both the players and the Clubs, Chippenham Town Youth, Derry Hill United, Castle Combe Colts, FC Chippenham Youth, Stanley Park Rangers, & Chippenham Futsal, for their support.
There were approximately 35 Coaches in attendance, who as they registered and renewed either their Club or Individual membership were given a mixture of Coaching Goodies.
The first session was delivered by Steve Hale and was upon Goalkeeping, focussing on the basic skills that can be delivered by coaches to grass roots keepers. From this base it was shown how the tuition can be developed alongside the capability of the player & coach. Steve worked with 16 keepers, coaching them and demonstrating to the watching audience a large number of drills and sessions which became increasingly difficult and stretching. The coaches present made many notes and enthused about the large amount of information that they would be able to take away and immediately use in their clubs. The time flew by and Steve was still in full flow when the very enjoyable session drew to an end.
Following Steve we were able to call upon the services of the FA/Tesco Skills Team from Somerset, Martin Phillips & Andy Horne, who delivered a session based upon Age Appropriate Coaching for 5 – 11 year olds and concentrated upon Passing techniques. They delivered 2 specific sessions which each contained a number of progressions. They were able to work with a group of 30 young children and retain their interest & enjoyment throughout, no mean feat. Session plans were made available to those present and copies can be obtained from us if required. The session was enjoyed by the players and appreciated by the watching coaches who picked up many tips on session management and how to deliver to fit the specific needs of the participants.
The final session was provided by the master that is John Trollope. John worked with a group of 16 who were between 14 & 17 years of age. The in game session concentrated on “possession with a purpose”. Within minutes of the session beginning John was able to influence the group and the progression thereafter was clear for all to see. The outcomes that John required were achieved and the players were keen to move on with their learning which enabled John to develop his session further with success. Many of the observers commented on the very noticeable changes & improvements by the players individually and as a group. The players all provided very positive feedback and appreciated how much had been achieved in a short period of time.
As you will detect from the above the event was very successful and achieved the aims & objectives we had set. To show our appreciation to the coaches who all volunteered their services we presented each of them with an engraved Tankard and Flowers for their partners.
The Anniversary Event was the 4th session we have delivered in 2010 and we are now planning for another 2/3 sessions before the end of the year.
We are still seeking to expand our membership and would like to encourage you to join yourself or encourage others to do so. Full details of the WCFCA can be found on our website, www.wiltshirecoaches.org or by contacting a committee member. We would also welcome volunteers to join our small but active committee.