BRENDAN McCARTNEY COLUMN
Coaches can build their clubs
AT all levels in football, it unquestionably has been a different year.
This time of the season would typically see junior teams across the country heading into a final series, suburban and country teams might have cemented a finals berth, competing to finish the year or doing their best to upset predicted results of remaining matches.
At AFL level the competition has generally broken itself into thirds; undeniable premiership prospects, finals possibilities or arranging to make necessary adjustments for next season.
The AFL is preparing for a month of football like we have never seen.
Adjusted fixturing, clubs living in hubs and all but one team having the chance to play finals.
Coaching and management of the playing cohort will face immense challenges.
They are overseeing training and conditioning amid short breaks, constant travel and disrupted lifestyles.
The upside is that they are playing. They can compete in the game.
At the forefront of how teams navigate the next period will depend on the vision, strategy, environment and connection with players that coaching groups can reinforce.
Short turnarounds can quickly impact form. To work on game-like team-based drills at training requires increased speed and movement.
Careful consideration is necessary to weigh up physical load versus continual improvement of method to avoid detraining and possible painful lopsided results.
With even less to compete with, the game is being scrutinised, analysed and dissected more than previously. It has never been more prevailing.
Remaining composed and ever-present for players is especially important.
Evaluated on his team’s onfield performance, this is where we will see four-time premiership coach, Alastair Clarkson at his best.
Clarkson will be looking to adjust and adapt his players and the environment he has created while remaining steadfast to the principles underlying an incredible career.
While teaching at AFL level presents many challenges and is a demanding occupation, it is a fantastic experience.
It requires knowledge, strength of character, resilience and empathy.
Above these life skills in importance for any coach or leader are passion and confidence.
Yes, it is potentially harder than other years, but they are getting to play and compete.
For coaches and their clubs at suburban, regional and country level the year appears more complicated.
The sheer fact of having no season presents vastly different pressures and possibly unthinkable consequences.
They coach because they love coaching and generally have strong affinities with their communities.
The footy club way of mateship, and togetherness has always been in their life.
Self-motivation, player drive to stay connected, and the retention of people at local clubs will continue to present obstacles in the coming months.
For many junior coaches the uncertainties of season length, the varying guidelines from region to region, player engagement and parental support may be placing additional strains.
As Clarkson continues to learn and grow through a turbulent period, it is a time and opportunity for all coaches in our great game to pursue ways of developing themselves. It may be seeking to understand what players want from them.
Perhaps it is not being shown the best way to move the ball but possibly receiving the encouragement to try different kicks and support of their endeavour to share the ball and open up space for teammates.
It may be they need a positive role model who listens and cares about them.
Some players require different forms of communication, clear and direct, but in ways that trigger learning and growth.
We can help our coaches recognise differences and appreciate the needs of the players.
Is this a time for all clubs to consider what coaching means in their organisation?
Formulate the blueprint around those conditions; create an athlete-centred environment, devise creative training sessions that require decision-making and problemsolving.
Players prepare to compete in games by playing the game, practise breakdown elements of the game rather than having players standing on a cone then running to another cone.
Can players have an individual development program that they create in conjunction with the coaches and parents? Every training session and game can take on more meaning.
Enable players of all ages to own their development and seek the necessary help to assist with their progression.
This season could present a unique opportunity to plan and strategise to bring your whole club together.
Create a “one-club” philosophy connecting everyone at the club to the future.
The best clubs and coaches consistently look to learn, grow and evolve and at the centre of this are the participants.