Hello footy fans and welcome to what we hope will be the first of many articles designed to provide a bit of entertainment and stimulate a healthy debate or two.
I recently completed the NSCAA’s National License course which was held on the campus of Curry College in Milton, Ma. Having registered for the course and received the information I felt I was physically prepared but mentally, although open-minded, I was a bit nervous. The dorm room accommodations and rock hard plastic mattress added to the challenge that lay ahead, not to mention a room-mate that snored loudly at exactly two thirty am every morning!
Breakfast was at seven every morning followed by a brief lecture on the topic of the day then it was straight to the natural grass field which we were told had been ‘prepared for us since May’ and was in immaculate condition. There we would practice our coaching skills, assessed by the NSCAA’s staff, an interesting group of men and women who have all coached at the college level and beyond. During the week long course they would come to make us feel more confident in our abilities while pushing us out of our comfort zones. I did find it somewhat intimidating at times. In my group of eleven, I was at forty two years old by far the oldest student. The closest to me I believe was twenty six! They were all college graduates or still in school, one young lady was at university in Florida at a division one school and her skill on the ball and knowledge of the game were impressive for a twenty year old. Others included a young man who is on the staff of the Red Bulls and another who had previously worked with the New England Revolution, all were either high school or college coaches. Everyone I spoke with wanted to know more about Bermuda and our football or soccer as they all call the game. Many of the instructors have actually been to the island and raved about our younger players and how we are, at the under fourteen and younger levels, so much better technically than our U.S. counter parts. Many of the division three level coaches are disappointed that they are unable to recruit from the island as they do not offer sports scholarships.
Such is the passion for the game in the U.S. that on the third day, the entire course schedule was re-arranged so that we could watch the Germany versus Italy Euro semi-final match. Attendance was mandatory we were told but I don’t think that would have been an issue, the hall was full some forty minutes before kick off! As the game went on I found myself listening to the other students’ opinions on players, thoughts on tactics and couldn’t help but be impressed with their knowledge of the game. With our ESPN, Sky Sports and Fox Soccer channels we are well up-to-date here with the football world but these future professional coaches displayed a wealth of understanding and passion that surprised me as I wasn’t expecting this from my American friends.
I experienced a challenging and very rewarding week. I truly stepped out of my comfort zone and I feel that I have grown as a coach and as a man. I walked away with an internationally recognized and respected qualification and I made connections and friendships in the game that will last a lifetime. I encourage all my fellow coaches here to get yourselves out there and experience the growing passion that is U.S. ‘soccer’!
Until next time, keep your eye on the ball!
Coach Pete
