gps 2014-2015 coach handbook

DEVELOPMENT PERFORMANCE

EXCELLENCEPRIDE

GLOBAL PREMIER SOCCERCoach Handbook

RESPECT

G P S

2. www.globalpremiersoccer.com

WELCOME TO THE

GLOBAL PREMIER SOCCERCOACH HANDBOOK

Table of Contents

3. WELCOME4. MISSION STATEMENT5. GPS STRUCTURE6. GPS PREMIER DEPARTMENT7. GPS REGIONAL MAP8. GPS PLAYER PATHWAY9. GPS BAYERN NATIONAL ID PROGRAM10. GPS STYLE OF PLAY11. GPS SYSTEMS OF PLAY12. GPS PREMIER PROGRAM13. GPS COMPETITIVE CALENDAR14. GPS JUNIOR/PREMIER - 6V615. GPS JUNIOR/PREMIER - 8V816. GPS PREMIER -11V1117. ROLE OF A COACH

18. COACH AS A MANNAGER - COMMUNICATION19. GPS PREMIER PROGRAM - ORGANIZATION20. COMMUNICATION - FIRST TOUCH21. OPERATIONS22. PARENT COORDINATOR MANAGEMENT23. RECRUITMENT24. PLAYER POOL SYSTEM25. ROSTER MANAGEMENT26. GAME DAY - BEST PRACTICES27. GAME DAY - BEST PRACTICES28. COACH AS A SPORTS PSYCHOLOGIST29. COACH AS A SPORTS PSYCHOLOGIST30. COACH AS A SPORTS PSYCHOLOGIST31. COACH AS AN INSTRUCTOR32. ROLE OF GPS TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT33. ROLE OF GPS SPORTS PERFORMANCE DEPARTMENT34. GPS GOALKEEPERS35. GPS PLAYER EXPECTATIONS36. GPS PLAYER EVALUATION37. GPS PLAYER EVALUATION38. SELF EVALUATION AND GOAL SETTING39. GPS ADDENDUM

Dear GPS coach,

I would like to welcome you to the GPS family. The essence of the club is to provide a positive, enjoyable and challenging learning environment for all of our players that will push them to reach their full potential.

The Coach Handbook is a new addition to the GPS learning environment. We want our coaches to be students of the game and to start becoming more accountable for their own learning pathway. In order to do this, coaches will need to take on more responsibility for their own development on and off the field.

This handbook will provide coaches with more information on what the expectations are from the club with regards to the style of play that we want to see permeate all of our teams, the systems of play and the roles within those systems that players need to be familiar with, and tools to be able to evaluate individual training and game performances.

We hope that our coaches will find a lot of their questions answered by referring to their handbook and that it will become a valuable tool in their development journey.

I wish all our coaches a very happy and healthy 2014/15 season and look forward to seeing you all on the field.

Best wishesPeter Bradley, GPS Director of Coaching

WELCOME TO

GLOBAL PREMIER SOCCER


PETER BRADLEYGPS DIRECTOR OF COACHING


MISSION STATEMENT


The mission of Global Premier Soccer is to be a leader in the development and growth of soccer across North America and beyond. We will establish an identity of excellence as we pursue our pathway to success on and off the field, with our primary focus being the development of players and people. We will develop players who can compete at the highest level of soccer around the world.


GPS STRUCTURE


MASSACHUSETTS NEW YORK MAINE FLORIDA NEW HAMPSHIRE RHODE ISLAND VERMONT NEW JERSEY CAROLINA GEORGIA

PETER BRADLEYGPS DIRECTOR OF COACHING

JOE BRADLEYGPS GENERAL MANAGER

GPS-MA Premier Department Boston | North | South | Central | West | GPS Milan Boston

DIRECTOR OF COACHINGPete Bradley

PREMIER/NPL DIRECTORAndy Prosser

PREMIER ASSISTANT Roxanne Lee-Stewart

GOALKEEPING Tom Mayor

E.D.P. MANAGER Warren Vanblommestein

GPS JUNIORS MANAGER Craig Ingram

INNER CITY MANAGER Mitch McPike

CLUB REGISTRAR Kirsty Hallam

ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT Andrew Thomson

NORTH D.O.C.Craig Thomas

CENTRAL D.O.C.Dan Rhodes

WEST D.O.C.Shane O’Sullivan

BOSTON D.O.C.Matt Hardiman

SOUTH D.O.C. Matt Walker

GPS MILAN BOSTON Sid Mazzola/ Billy Walker



STYLE OF PLAY


CONFIDENTGPS teams are built up of confident players. This confidence is created with self belief, hard work, repetition and team camaraderie - all created in a positive coaching environment.

BUILD FROM THE BACKGPS teams always look to build attacks from the back as opposed to playing kick and run soccer.

POSITIVE POSSESSIONGPS teams play an indirect style of soccer but have an awareness of the most appropriate penetrating pass.

ATTACK-MINDEDGPS teams play the game with flair and creativity.

PHYSICALITY (EXPLOSIVE)GPS teams excel in the physical element of the game - exhibiting pace and power. GPS teams are hard working, hard in the tackle but always play within the laws of the game.

DEFENSIVE PRESSUREGPS teams understand how and when to apply pressure in order to regain possession of the ball.

PROACTIVE (SMART)GPS teams are soccer smart. Players are students of the game and are able to make adjustments based on what they see.

GPS STYLE OF PLAY VIDEOhttp://masspremiersoccer.com/gpscoachresourcecenter/gps-style-of-play/


GPS SYSTEMS OF PLAY


In the 11 v 11 game format, GPS teams will operate in the 1-4-3-3 system. In the 8v8 game format, GPS teams will operate in the 1-2-4-1 system.

In the 4v4 game format, GPS teams will operate in the 1-2-1 system.In the 6v6 game format, GPS teams will operate in the 1-2-1-2 system.



GPS PREMIER PROGRAM

GPS Massachusetts are proud to have designed both a system and style of play that is applied throughout every level of our club.

THE GPS PREMIER PROGRAM: INTRODUCTION

The GPS Premier Team Program (for players aged 12-19) is a year-round program that provides a positive and challenging training environ-ment and competitive calendar of games. Our focus will be on delivering an appropriate “diet” of soccer for every player that addresses the relevant Technical, Tactical, Physical and Psychological aspects of the game

The GPS Premier Program is for any player that: •Ispassionateaboutthegameofsoccer; •Hasastrongworkethic; •Wantstoimprove.

The winning tradition GPS has established over the past 10 years and the ability to move players on to play collegiately and professionally, is based on each player improving significantly over the time they are with the club. The club has experienced a lot of on-field success dur-ing this period including 16 National titles.

We want GPS Coaching staff to be coaches of positive significance in our young players’ lives and we expect the coaching staff to inspire and motivate in an atmosphere of respect and honesty versus fear and intimidation. Our coaching staff will encourage players to start to think for themselves on and off the field. Success is achieved through building good habits and the earlier players develop positive habits on and off the field the more success they will achieve.

The GPS Premier program is divided into two distinct phases of a young player’s development pathway. The first phase is for players aged 8-13yrs and is split into three distinct levels based on player ability – Elite, Select and Academy. The second phase is for players aged 14-17yrs and is split into two levels – Elite and Select only.



GPS COMPETITIVE CALENDAR

August 25thNovember 9th2New England Premiership Labor Day WeekendClub Residential Camp Boys 08/16 - 08/19 Girls 08/20 - 08/23

December 1st – December 14th recommencing January 5th February 15th2 (including GPS Futsal League)GPS Futsal LeagueN/A N/A

February 23thJune 14th2New England PremiershipVarious events which will be covered in the Tournament Fee Club Residential Camp: April Vacation

June 15thJuly 26th2TournamentsVarious events which will be covered in the Tournament Fee N/A

FALL 2014Season Start Date Season End Date Events Per Week League Play Tournament Play Team Camps

WINTER 2014Season Start Date Season End Date Events Per Week League Play Tournament Play Team Camps

SPRING 2015Season Start DateSeason End DateTraining Sessions Per Week: League PlayTournament PlayTeam Camps

SUMMER 2015Season Start DateSeason End DateTraining Sessions Per Week League PlayTournament PlayTeam Camps



GPS PROGRAMS - GPS JUNIOR/PREMIER - 6V6

This is the ‘practice to develop phase’ meaning that during games no score or league table is kept meaning the league is focused on player development and not winning.

There is no numerical system at 6v6 as players will experience playing various roles throughout the season.

THE 1-2-1-2 system.

In the 6v6 game, GPS teams will adpot the 1-2-1-2 system.

Teamswillconsistof;

•1goalkeeper •2defenders •1centralmidfielder •2attackingplayers.



GPS PROGRAMS - GPS JUNIOR/PREMIER - 8V8

This is the ‘training to compete’ phase which means score and league tables are now recorded but the emphasis is still on player devel-opment over results. Educating players that the element of competition is important and making sure its done in the right manner.

U11 & U12 – 8v8

THE 1-2-4-1 system

In the 8v8 game, GPS teams will adoPt the 1-2-4-1 system.

Teamswillconsistof;

•1goalkeeper •2centraldefenders •2wingbacks •2centralmidfielders * 1 central striker.



GPS PROGRAMS - GPS PREMIER - 11v11

At u13 and above, GPS plays a 1-4-3-3 formation.

The ‘training to win’ phase puts more emphasis on outcome.

U13-Adult – 11v11

At11v11,teamswillconsistof;

•1goalkeeper •2centraldefenders •2wingbacks •3centralmidfielders •2wideforwards •1centralstriker



ROLE OF A COACH

GPS coaches conduct and behavior should be professional at all times both on and off the field. This handbooks provides you with best prac-tices and what is expected of you every time you are on the field representing GPS.

Role of GPS Coach

Coach As Instructor

Coach As Manager

Coach As Sports Psychologist



COACH AS A MANAGER - COMMUNICATION

1. Communication2. Operations3. Management of PC4. Roster Management

Communication:Clear communication at all levels will prevent the majority of issues from ever arising. Head coaches will be expected to communicate regularly with their team. The communication chain will be:

Head Coach

Premier Director

Player/Parent/PC

Regional Director of Coaching

Club DOC



THE GPS PREMIER PROGRAM: ORGANIZATION AND COMMUNICATION

GPS has introduced a program from a communication perspective called the C.A.R.E initiative.C - CommunicationA - AccountabilityR - RespectE - Exceed Expectations

The protocol will be:

•Preseasonmeeting.Needstobeattendedbyplayersandatleastoneparent.•Mondaygamereportontheweekend’sgameandtheplanforthecomingweekdeliveredviatheFirstTouchApp(eitherbyvoicemailorwritten email.)•Regularcommunicationwithplayersattrainingandaftergames.•Endofseasonevaluation.

Players shouldunderstand their strengths and areas for improvement – there should be no surprises at the end of year evaluation. If a parent wishes to discuss a soccer question with the Head Coach, they should set up a specific time to call or meet with the Head Coach in person. It is against club policy for a parent to approach a Head Coach directly after a game.

Team Meeting guidelines:

Introduction: Explain philosophy, style and systems of play.

Expectations: Set out expectations, punctuality, appearance, commitment, behaviour.

Calendar: Training details, league play, tournament play.

Mid-Season: Reschedule to see if goals are being met, verbal evaluation.

End Season: Written and verbal evaluations, team social event.



COACH AS A MANAGER - COMMUNICATION - FIRST TOUCH APP

2014-15 season will be the first season GPS will be using the First Touch App for all team communication. The app is downloadable on any smart phone. To download the app you will need to go to the American App store and search First Touch Soccer. (See image on the right)

The First Touch menu will show the following options: -

MessagesIt enables you to send out a text message to your team and shows who as read it and when. It enables you to send individual messages or to send group messages to either player and parents or just parents.

ContactsThis section will show key contact information for all players and parents within your team.

AlertsThis feature gives you the option to send a voice recorded message to your team.It is quick and easy to use and can be easier than typing a text message.

GallerySave pictures and videos of the team to send to the media department for use within the club.

CalendarAdd key dates into your calendar. Your PC will have access and can input all relevant information for quick and easy access to view.

CurriculumAccess to GPS curriculum for quick easy-to-view session plans and watch animated sessions.

SettingsPersonalize your app and change any settings to suit you.



COACH AS A MANAGER - OPERATIONS

The 2 major areas where a coach will be responsible for operational logistics will be:

•Attire–coachandplayer •Equipment

Attire:

It is extremely important from a club professionalism standpoint that coaching staff follow the attire protocol diligently. You need to make sure that this is an agreed upon principle with your team. You should also make sure that players are clear on accountability – it is their responsibility to pack their own kit and make sure that they are properly attired. They should label their own attire and if they so happen to misplace it, they must pay for a replacement.

Equipment:

All head coaches will be provided with a standard set of coaching equipment which will include balls, cones, pinneys and a pump.

•Balls–alwaysmakesurethattheyareproperlypumpedupatthebeginningofasession •Pinneys–theseshouldbewashedperiodically

Your equipment should be maintained in a professional manner at all times and collected at the end of each session.



COACH AS A MANAGER - PARENT COORDINATOR MANAGEMENT

Primary functions of a Parent Coordinator (PC): •Organization •Communication •Support

Organization:

Your PC should be organized and computer savvy and are there to assist you in managing your team. They should have no say or sway in decisions that you have taken for the benefit of the team and the club.

Communication:

Occasionally you will have a PC with a very strong personality and it is important that you control their communication with your team. It is also vital that the PC communicates in a timely fashion with the club when requested. If they fail to do this on a regular basis, they will be removed from their role and you will be asked to find a replacement. If you are unable to find a suitable replacement, you will be asked to assume the duties of the PC for the remainder of the season.

Support:

The PC can be a huge help to you throughout the course of the year but you must manage their interaction with you, your players and parents and the club and ensure that they are fully aware of your expectations.



RECRUITMENT

As head coach it is your responsibility to ensure that you have the best players possible in your squad and that you are aware of the financial targets required for each team to be viable. You need to be aware of the balance of your team and look what specific needs you may have in order to be successful.

Recruitment

Identifying and attracting the very best players will be a priority or head coaches and the ability to identify and attract players is a key concept in building a successful team.

You will be expected to be active in identifying games that you can attend in person in order to watch players and meet parents.

During the NEP season the recruitment rules change and you can not directly contact a player from another NEP team. You can contact players from clubs who compete in MAPLE during the season. During the season if you find a player you would like to get across to the club its advised to get that players name and details if possible and put into a database for when you can then legally contact that player. If a player from an NEP club reaches out to you about your team, you must inform your DOC. If you are interested in this player you must contact the coach of that player’s team and inform them that this player has contacted you. You must request permission to speak directly with that player and parent, or wait until the season has finished.



COACH AS A MANAGER - PLAYER POOL SYSTEM

At GPS we promote a “pool system” for our Junior Premier program. At this stage of a young player’s development, there are a lot of vari-ables that can enhance or impact development and we want to ensure that our players are given the necessary support and time to be able to reach their full potential. While we fully understand how “winning” can positively affect player development, it is a by-product of a solid technical-tactical base and of a club’s player development philosophy.The “pool system” will see all players in the team at that age group brought together and train as a group with the two coaches. • U9+U10thisgroupwillbearound18-20players-6aside• U11+U12thegroupwillbearound22-24players-8aside

From this pool of players two teams will be selected to play each weekend. The players will be selected to play in games at the weekend based on training performance but also based on coach discretion. This may involve wanting to see a player in a different role or environ-ment on any given week. The Head Coach will communicate the team split by the end of every Monday so that parents will have a week to plan accordingly for the game logistics.

The expectation over the course of a full year is that the Head Coach will use the fall season to allow some movement between teams, the winter season will see the players train together as a group, and the spring season will see a little less movement between groups. But the Head Coach will always reserve the right to move a player as they see fit.

We will follow the same curriculum for all our players but we will differentiate content based on making sure that all our players are being challenged appropriately. It is important that we train our young players how to handle and deal with a variety of situations, and how to deal and cope with adversity.

Our aim is to ensure that our young players get the appropriate level of enjoyment, challenge and improvement from their experience in the Junior Premier program so that they get the necessary base of education in all 4 pillars of the game – technical, tactical, physical and psychological.



COACH AS A MANAGER - ROSTER MANAGEMENTFinances

Squad sizes:U9 - U10 10-12 playersU11- U12 12-14 playersU13+ 18-22players

Playing Time

Managing playing time is a challenge that faces us all. We want to ensure that players are being given ample opportunity to develop in game scenarios and yet we want to maximise our chances of success. We state in the player handbook that playing time is never guaranteed – that it is something that has to be earned. Make sure that players know what they need to do to garner more playing time and if you decide to not play a player at all in a game, talk to them and let them know why. Being able to satisfy the player development needs of your squad and still win is the sign of an excellent manager and coach.Its advised and generally common practice within GPS to have equal playing time from u9 through to u12 to give them maximum opportunity to develop and play the game.

Coaches need to be aware of NEP substution rules during competitive games.



COACH AS A MANAGER - GAME DAY BEST PRACTICES

Pre Game

Monday Communication with team to confirm game logisitcs (arrival time, location and directions) and to confirm 100% player availability. Address any potential roster issues with Regional DOC.

Friday Collect ref checks. Perform a roster and passcard check. Under no circumstances will a player be allowed to play without a passcard. Fill out team sheet with key notes. If you covering a game, meet in person with the Head Coach to discuss player availability and placement. Also get all relevant contact information (i.e. PC phone number).

Game Day

Arrive on timeAlways arrive an hour before kick off (40 minutes for 6v6 / 8v8 games).

AttireMake sure you are wearing the correct coaching attire.

Team SheetYou should have your starting 11 and team sheet written out ready to go. Always have it near by on the side line to make notes to make your half time team talk specific and quick. Generally a quick re-cap of what is going well and 3 things to improve will not over load the players during the half time team talk.

Coaching Demeanor (Positive)GPS coaches should be calm on the side lines and not scream and shout. When talking to players on the field do so in a calm manner and explain what they can do to improve and help the team. Never shout at one player individually I a negative way. All information passed on is done so in a positive way to encourage the player to want to do better.

SubstitutionsWhen making a substitution be sure to be positive about their performance and explain any situations they could have done better in and how to do so next time around. All information is positive and to help the player improve.



COACH AS A MANAGER - GAME DAY BEST PRACTICES

RespectGPS coaches will shake the hands of all match officials and opponents after a game no matter the score or anything they may have done to upset you. GPS staff will have full respect for match officials and never question a referee during a game. Any breach of this can lead to disciplinary ac-tion in the office.

24 hour ruleParents are not to speak to any coach within 24 hours of a game. This is stated in the handbook each player & parent signs at the start of the sea-son. If a parent approaches you after a game in an aggressive manner you must politely say “I am not at liberty to speak to you right now, feel free to call or e-mail me tomorrow and we can discuss and questions you might have, thank you.”

Score ReportingAfter each game the score must be reported to the league by both teams. This will be a task taken on by the team PC but as a head coach it is important you follow up with your PC to make sure this is being done. Scores can be reported by calling an automated phone line or by following the below link:http://www.nepremiership.com/score-reporting.html



COACH AS A SPORTS PSYCHOLOGIST

SuccessA good barometer for judging your success as a coach is to ask yourself these 3 questions at the end of a season:1. Did my players enjoy the season?2. Did my players improve this season – did they learn?3. Where my players challenged this season?If the answer to all 3 is YES, then you have had a successful season regardless of results on the field.

Role Model:As a GPS coach you will always be expected to be a role model for your own players and for the club as a whole. This means that you will be expected to behave in an exemplary fashion when you are involved in a coaching capacity within the club.What we expect:• Highstandardofpersonalappearance• Goodpunctuality• Appropriateuseoflanguagewheninteractingwillalllevelsofthesoccercommunity• UpholdthehigheststandardofethicsandmoralcodeCoaches should never show up to any team meeting or event under the influence of alcohol, if so, this will be treated as a gross misconduct.

C.A.R.EEveryone likes to know that someone GENUINELY cares for him or her and this is particularly important with a young player’s develop-ment.Make yourself acquainted with their personal information quickly:• Name• Age• Birthday• Parent’s/Siblingsnames• TowntheyliveinTake an interest in them outside the soccer field, and try to keep track of anything out of the ordinary relating to that player.It is important to follow up diligently if a player is injured, keep in touch regularly until they return to the team as this will show that you are genuinely concerned about them as a person as well as a soccer player28




Team BuildingTeam building can range from simple things such as walking and leaving a field together, to full-blown activities such as a ropes course. They are very useful at the beginning of a season to generate a sense of camaraderie and fun, particularly if the coach is new to a group.• Setcommongoal/goals• Makethisacollectiveundertaking• ProvideplayerswithopportunityforinputandownershipIf the season’s goals are only the coach’s goals, then there will be very little chance of achieving them.

Communication:The keys to being successful in this area are:- Simplicity- Clarity- Consistency- PositiveYoung players need clean, clear communication on things that they are doing well and areas that need improvement. They also need clarity on HOW to improve these areas. Your communication with a player should be an ongoing and consistent part of their development and should not revolve around their end of year evaluations or addressing negative situations as they arise.Providing constructive feedback in an open and honest manner is the best way for young players to learn.Asking young players what they have actually heard when you are giving them feedback. What they hear and what you say can be vastly differ-ent so it is a useful technique to ask them to summarize your feedback to them.

Language:There are 2 areas to address here:1. Foul Language2. Appropriate LanguageFoul Language: This is NEVER acceptable no matter what age group you are working with. It is totally unacceptable to use any form when addressing players individually or as a group. Using any form will be treated as a gross misconduct.Appropriate Language:This is vital in how we communicate with young players, keeping the vocabulary appropriate at each level of development allows progression up the ranks. The younger the player, the more need to use simpler terminology so that the players can grasp it and therefore use it themselves.




Awareness of Potential IssuesIn order to perform on the field, a player’s off field wellbeing is also important. A coach should be aware of the signs that can impact on a player’s performance, which may range from:• Eatingdisorders• Abuse• LearningdisordersGPS will provide education on each of these areas so that coaching staff can be aware of some of the tell-tale signs that accompany these issues and will know how to handle the communication protocol that is involved with this.

BullyingGPS will not tolerate bullying of any form within the clubIt is important that a coach is aware of how bullying can impact on a player’s development, they need to understand the tell-tale signs and how to address it.

Gender DifferenceThere are some key differences that coaches should be aware of when coaching girls versus boys. Although there will be no difference in setting expectations of the highest standard, there are a few key areas that coaches should be aware of:•ProvidingFeedback–femalesplayerstakefeedbackseriouslyandwilloftenpersonaliseit,coachesneedtobecarefulhowtheyaddressthis process as it can cause damage in a coach/player relationship.•Beingpositive–importantwhencoachingyoungfemaleplayersastheyrespondmuchmorewillinglytopositiveinput.•TeamChemistry–importantforbothgendersbutfemaleplayersquiteoftenaremotivatedbygroupsuccessratherthantheirownpersonal success. They will want to feel a strong part of the group, and if this isn’t done properly, it can cause major issues with team chemistry.

EnjoymentIn order for effective learning to take place, it is vital that your players are enjoying themselves. • Youngplayerswanttohavefun–thisdoesn’tmeantheywanttomessaround• TheywanttobechallengedtoimprovethemselvesasplayersWe need to provide a positive and challenging environment where the players are put into situations where they have to think for them-selves, work with teammates and ultimately find their own solutions to problems that, you and the game, poses them.



COACH AS AN INSTRUCTOR

GPS will provide a detailed, age-appropriate curriculum that is aimed at having players’ progress in a clear and meaningful way.

We believe that with these fundamental skills in place, a player will have the ability to perform at the highest levels of the game. It is our responsibility to ensure that the players are being progressively challenged to be able to perform these concepts consistently, as good habits.

We will address the 4 pillars of player development in each session:• Technical/Tactical• Social• Physical• Psychological

GPS recommends that all practice sessions follow the S.C.O.R.E. method:

SIMPLE. Stick to one theme during your practice session. Choose 2 or 3 core coaching points and reinforce them throughout the session.

CHALLENGING. Ensure that the players are posed problems that they need to find solutions to. Provide guidance and help when they need it.

ORGANISED. Plan every detail of your session - how many players, space and equipment. Ensure that your sessions have the appropriate pace and progression to challenge all of your players.

RELEVANT. Ensure that the exercises in your session are relevant to the game.

ENJOYABLE. The players should walk away from every practice having thoroughly enjoyed the session and learning at least one new aspect of the game.



COACH AS AN INSTRUCTOR - ROLE OF THE GPS TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT

The Technical Department is responsible for all coach & player education, coaching curriulum, sports performance, goalkeepeing & pro-viding new and innovative ideas about soccer. Supporting players off the field is a paramount part of The GPS Way and why our club has achieved so much in player development and on field success.

Coach Resource CenterThe GPS Coach Resource Center home to all GPS curriculum and documents a coach would use while coaching at GPS. This is a living and breathing library and new content will be continuously added. All session plans are there as a guide and GPS coaches are expected to adapt and adjust sessions to fit the requirements of their teams & players.

Matrix of Player DevelopmentThe Matrix of Player Development is a template designed to outline what key skills players should learn at each age. This document acts as a guide for all created curriculum to make sure its specific and relevent to developing players the GPS way.



GPS TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT - ROLE OF THE SPORTS PERFORMANCE DEPARTMENT

The Sports Performance Department is responsible for the physical and psychological development of all athletes within GPS.

Warm Up EducationThe SPD has created a specific dynamic warm up for the Junior/Premier & Premier age groups to make sure all GPS players are physically and mentality ready to practice and compete.

Hurdle EducationAs part of our commitment to player development, the SPD has created and sends out hurdle education work sheets which provides our players with exercises to perform in their own time away from practice in order to improve the following areas: -

StrengthAgilityCoordinationPower

Fitness TestingThe SPD is responsible for the continued fitness testing of each of the teams at u13 and above. The players fitness will be assessed at the pre-season camp and training and results recorded. Players will be re-tested mid-season and at the end of the season to ascertain if fitness levels fluctuate throughout the season and fitness levels are maintained.

Injury Protocol/PreventionThe SPD is responsible for recording any player injuries referring players to specific rehabilitation centres the club has a partnership with and continuously informing club members of injury prevention techniques and exercises. The protocol is stated below:

NutritionA meal of the week document is sent out to inform players and parents of the right foods to be eating pre/post game to give players energy and maintain a healthy diet. and important facts about a balanced diet.



GPS TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT - GOALKEEPERS

Unbeatable Goalkeeping

Global Premier Soccer and Unbeatable Goalkeeping (UGK) are here to provide players with the highest level of goalkeeper training and expertise. This program is focused on development and long-term growth, in an effort to help each athlete achieve their own personal and professional goals. Our experienced coaches will work to improve the skills and techniques of each goalkeeper, resulting in a full evaluation at the end of the season.

Sessions are open to players of all age groups, regardless of GPS affiliation, however this opportunity is available at no cost for GPS mem-bers. For those not in the GPS Premier programs we have 3 tiers to choose from that will get you to the next level of goalkeeping. These tiers come with some additional extras, full adidas Goalkeeping attire, end of season development reviews, and depending on the tiers, discounts on personalized 1 on 1 sessions and other discount coupons to purchase goalkeeper-specific merchandise.


PLAYER EXPECTATIONS


TRAINING EXPECTATIONS

• Ensure that ALL facilities are treated with respect.• Always wear the appropriate training gear.• The wearing of jewellery when playing in practice sessions is strictly forbidden.• Be punctual at all times. (Aim to be ready 15 minutes before any session).• Always help with equipment during practice. You should not need to be asked.• Report all injuries immediately to your Head Coach.

MATCH CONDUCT

• Ensure that ALL facilities are treated with respect.• Besurethatyougameinformation(location,meetingtime,kick-offtime).• Be proud of your appearance on the field. Make sure your cleats are polished before each game.• The wearing of jewellery when playing in games is strictly forbidden.• Alwaysshowgoodsportsmanship.• Acceptanydecisiongivenbythereferee.• Neverretaliate,verballyorphysically,nomatterwhattheprovocationmaybe.• Alwaysgetagoodnight’ssleeppriortoanygames.• Always apply correct dress code when travelling.• Report all injuries immediately to your Head Coach.

GENERAL CODE OF CONDUCT

• Alwaysconductyourselfwithrespect.• Alwaysrespectotherpeopleandproperty–youareanambassadorfortheclubatalltimes.• Maximumeffortisaminimumrequirement–alwaystakeprideinyourperformanceatbothgamesandintraining.• Alwayswearshinguardsforalltrainingandmatches.• Alwayswarm-upandwarm-downbeforeandaftertrainingandmatches.• Learntherulesofthegame.• Give yourself every chance to succeed – prepare correctly for training and matches by maintaining a balanced healthy lifestyle.• Beappreciativeofyourparent’ssupport.• Haveagoodattitude,bothonandoffthefield.


COACH AS AN INSTRUCTOR - PLAYER EVALUATION


Evaluation and assessment is an important part of every player’s long-term development.

Every GPS player will receive continual feedback throughout the soccer year. However, GPS players will also undergo 3 formal assessments during the year - this will highlight areas where a player is succeeding but also areas of their game that they need to address in order to improve.

The GPS Player Evaluation schedule will be as follows: -

U9, U10 - & U11End of Fall season verbal evaluation. Player and parents are to be in attendance at the evaluation meeting.End of Spring season written evaluation. Player and parents are to be in attendance at the evaluation meeting.

U12, U13 & U14End of Fall season verbal evaluation. Player and parents are to be in attendance at the evaluation meeting.End of winter verbal evaluation given to player.End of Spring season written evaluation. Player and parents are to be in attendance at the evaluation meeting.

U15, U16End of winter verbal evaluation. End of Spring season written evaluation. Parent attendance is optional at U16.

U17 & U18End of winter verbal evaluation with player. End of Spring season written & verbal evaluation with player.


COACH AS AN INSTRUCTOR - PLAYER EVALUATION


Attached is an example of the evaluation documents that are used during the Player / Coach end of season evaluation.

GPS PLAYER EVALUATION 2014PLAYER NAME: D.O.B.: 06.05.2004TEAM: POSITION:COACH: SEASON: 2013-‐14

COMMENTS

.

Tactical

Physical

Psychological

JACK PANAYOTOUU10 BULLDOGS ELITECHRIS WARD-‐JONES

Technical

Technical

Tac+cal

Physical

Psych.

PLAYER'S CURRENT PROFILE

1ST TOUCH AND RANGE OF PASSING HAVE BOTH IMPROVED THIS YEAR. CLOSE CONTROL IN TIGHT AREAS CONTINUES TO BE ONE OF YOUR STRENGTHS. YOU HAVE ADDED FINISHING ATTACKING MOVES TO YOUR STRENGTHS.

POSITIONAL SENSE AND AWARENESS IN CENTER MIDFIELD HAS COME ON LEAPS AND BOUNDS. YOU ARE SHOWING AN UNDERSTANDING OF ALL TEAM ROLES AND HOW THEY ARE ALL CONNECTED.

YOUR ABILITY TO PLAY AT A HIGH LEVEL FOR LONGER PERIODS HAS IMPROVED. YOUR PLAY USING YOUR RIGHT FOOT HAS IMPROVED SIGNIFICANTLY IN COMPARISON TO U9!

YOUR PASSION FOR THE SPORT IS CLEAR FOR ALL TO SEE. YOUR ATTITUDE TOWARDS TRAINING AND GAMES IS ALWAYS 100% -‐ 100% ENERGY, 100% ENTHUSIASM, 100% EFFORT.

Technical

Tac+cal

Physical

Psych

IDEAL PLAYER PROFILE

GPS PLAYER EVALUATION 2014D.O.B.: 06.05.2004POSITION: CM / FWSEASON: 2013-‐14

U9&10 EvalTechnical Score Tactical Score Physical Score Psychological ScoreReceiving 5 Awareness 8 Agility 8 Attitude 10Passing 4 Creativity 7 Co-‐ordination 7 Bravery 8Dribbling 4 Decision-‐making 6 Speed 7 Coachability 9Turning 4 Understand roles 7 Stamina 7 Confidence 81v1 attacking 4 Movement off ball 7 Strength 6 Focus 9Shot/finish 4R. foot 3L. foot 51v1 defending 3GK ability 1

Technical Tactical Physical Psych.Total 37 35 35 44

JACK PANAYOTOUU10 BULLDOGS ELITECHRIS WARD-‐JONES

PLAYER NAME:TEAM:COACH:

Technical Score: 1= improve 2=develop 3=good 4-‐5=excellent TacKcal Score: 1-‐2= improve 3-‐5=develop 6-‐8=good 9-‐10=excellent Physical Score: 1-‐2= improve 3-‐5=develop 6-‐8=good 9-‐10=excellent Psychological Score: 1-‐2= improve 3-‐5=develop 6-‐8=good 9-‐10=excellent TOTAL SCORES FOR EACH SECTION ADD UP TO 50


COACH AS AN INSTRUCTOR - SELF-EVALUATION: GOAL SETTING


It is vital that you continually set yourself goals to achieve - there will always be an area of your coaching that can be improved.

The goal setting tool will help you to set a structured personal development plan.

NAME:

TEAM:

TECHNICAL TACTICAL PHYSICAL PSYCHOLOGICAL

SHORT TERM GOALS

LONG TERM GOALS

INDIVIDUAL GOALS TEAM GOALS

gps 2014-2015 coach handbook

Documents

gps addendumdear gps

gps structure6

gps goalkeepers35

gps family

gps premier department7

gps premier program13

gps premier 11v1117

gps player pathway9