It is vital that coaches of young players are aware of much more than the game of football itself and are conscious of the wider issues which impact player development. The Four Corner Model for player development outlines the range of influencing factors which may need to be addressed if a young player is reach their potential. Our coaches understand that each aspect of the four corners does not exist in isolation. Each of the corners is connected, and relies on support from the other three corners. At ESPZEN we recognize the development pathway for each individual is unique and diverse, the needs of each player will ebb and flow in all of the four corners.
TARGET : DEVELOPING TECHNIQUE
Players will improve by playing lots of football. That said, without a skilled mix of guidance, challenge, appropriate questioning, demonstration and teaching, it is unlikely that players will reach their true potential
TARGET : INCREASING TECHNIQUE
Creating learning environments which challenge players to be imaginative, creative and reflect on their performance, both during and after the practice/game is fundamental to the development of the future player. Coaches must understand there is more than one way that players learn the game
TARGET : IMPROVING MOVEMENT
To become an effective football player there are basic physical movement skills which need to be developed. Agility, balance, co-ordination and Speed (ABC’s) are all essential qualities for players.
TARGET : ENJOYING FOOTBALL
Playing football can help children learn many life skills:- co-operation, teamwork, communication and friendship are some of the benefits of joining a club and playing the game. To allow these social skills to develop, players should be afforded a safe and supportive environment and given encouragement to learn the game.
| Psychological Age | ||||||||
| Physical Age | ||||||||
| Social Age | ||||||||
| Technical Age | ||||||||
| Chronological Age(years) | ||||||||
14 |
15 |
16 |
17 |
The profile of the above player shows that whilst he is 15yrs and 8 months, the player is Technically advanced and advanced decision making skills (Psychological Age), however the player may carry a smaller physique (Physical Age) and perhaps be a little shy (Social Age).
Establishing where a young player may be, along their journey to maturity is not a straightforward exercise. The opinion of the coach, the player, and the player’s parents/carers will obviously play a part.
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