Basketball Queensland’s Post

Research Spotlight Wednesday! Today, we shine a light on the work of Ted Baker now the Zone Scout Coordinator at Sheffield United Football Club. Ted’s background in scouting, recruitment, and coaching within U9-16 academy football inspired his research project: “Exploring the Scouting Landscape in English Football Academies: Key Insights and Value.” Ted’s study delves into the current scouting environment across professional football academies in England, drawing on data from 71 scouts. Here are some key findings: Diverse Roles: Among the participants, 31% are full-time, 42.3% part-time, and 26.8% volunteers. Category One scouts were the most represented group at 45.1%. Volunteer Involvement: Volunteers play a crucial role but often feel isolated, with 50% in Category Three reporting insufficient feedback or communication from clubs. Trust & Feedback: Trust is paramount, with 87% of respondents rating it as “essential” or “very important.” However, 73.7% of volunteers reported receiving no feedback from coaches. Communication Gaps: Improved communication is needed; 66.2% of scouts emphasised the importance of relationships, yet formal channels are rare, especially for volunteers. Motivations: Unselfishness drives many scouts, with nearly 50% prioritising “developing children” over financial gain. Knowledge Transfer: The study highlights a lack of CPD opportunities for volunteers, with 42.11% reporting none, underscoring the need for structured knowledge-sharing mechanisms. Standardisation Challenges: While 56.4% supported standardised performance measures, resistance from full-time scouts indicates a need for trust and transparency. These findings highlight critical areas for improvement in how clubs manage and interact with their scouting staff, ultimately enhancing recruitment processes and talent identification. By addressing these issues, we can foster a more supportive and inclusive environment for scouts at all levels, leading to long-term success on the field. Let’s drive meaningful change in football scouting together and keep an eye out for future work that Ted is working on! #Football #Scouting #TalentIdentification #FootballAcademies #Coaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #Inclusion University of Worcester University of Worcester School of Sport & Exercise Science The Association of Professional Football Analysis Professional Football Scouts Association (PFSA)

https://lnkd.in/eVwvp2Fy This is a great question, but I’m unsure anyone will have a conclusive answer although many will have great arguments to support their opinion. I think we need to look at the bigger picture, and ensure that there are more ‘Women in Football’ not just as Head Coaches/Managers. Just like there is a vital role for women to play in the men’s game, an ‘all-female’ cast of staff in the women’s game is not giving you the right balance and diversity of opinion either. It would be wrong to not give very good male coaches/managers jobs just because they are men. I have always been a great advocate for more women staff, along with players preparing themselves for life after playing by encouraging them to start their coaching qualifications as soon as possible. At the 3 WSL clubs that I have managed, I have always had a female coach as part of my core technical team. Lauren Smith at Bristol City, Claire Ditchburn at Everton and most recently, Jennifer Foster at Leicester City. There have been many more female staff part of my MDT’s in roles of Analyst, Physical Performance Coach, Medical and Player Care etc. One other thing that we have to consider is the players that (in my opinion) would make great coaches and managers, but at this point in their post-playing careers have chosen to work in other areas. Fara Williams, Izzy Christiansen, Karen Carney, Jill Scott, Ellen White, Steph Houghton, Anita Asante amongst others would all make significant contributions to the game as coaches and/or managers but are adding their value to the game by working in the media. If we are patient, we will eventually see more Head Coaches in the WSL and Championship not only women, but English women. Patience alone will not be enough however, and this also means we need to have it as part of overall club’s strategies, ensure there is a greater awareness and where possible succession plan. Until that natural evolution happens, let’s ensure that we have the best players, coaches, and practitioners in the WSL that we can, based on ability and experience.

Sports and Society Sports has been identified as part of the society that provides opportunities for regular interaction with many social institutions. Sports play a major role in the society. Sports has become a major part of modern society with influence being felt in all areas of life to the extent that it has become a force and symbol of national unity. The value of sports to the societies include the following: • It serves as avenue to unite various ethnic groups. • It is used to reduce tension. • Its victory has some national impact like prestige, enhance status and respect. • It brings about economic and political gain to the society. • It creates excitement, fun, enjoyment and physical fitness. • It serves a tool for settling dispute.

⚽️BAN male football managers in women's football (Not really, but something a bit like that...) Homegrown female coaches are still barely getting a look-in in women's club football in England. "The Football Association stated in 2022 their aim was to have 75% female managers or head coaches in the WSL." and then... what's happened since? Read the article to find out. (Spoiler Alert: It's got worse) A game full of female, homegrown coaches would help to transform women's football from the top down AND from the bottom up, as it encouraged loads more women to train as coaches. So, here's a discussion opener... Would you agree with making it a License condition (from 2027/28 to allow transition) that women's teams in England from the National League down (ie still controlled by the FA) when appointing a new coach/manager, had to choose a homegrown, female one? Or go further and press NewCo to mandate the same thing for WSL/Championship, in License conditions? It might be a License rule that only needs to run for say 5 years, to break the ceiling (and keep it broken). But without something radical, it's going to take decades, if ever, at this rate, to break the addiction to male coaches whilst also increasing the supply of female coaches. What do you want the women's game to be? Just like the men's? Or...

🌟 Parents play a pivotal role in shaping young athletes' journeys. 🌟 Our latest blog post, written by Ioannis Toumpanakis , delves into the impact of parental support on youth sports. It offers actionable tips to help parents foster growth, resilience, and success in their children’s athletic endeavors. Whether you're a parent, coach, or simply passionate about nurturing the next generation of athletes, this guide is a must-read! 📖 Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/dwySiP9k Let's empower young athletes together! 💪🏅 #YouthSports #Parenting #SportsIntegrity #AthleteDevelopment #SupportAndSuccess

🌟 VSS (Virtual Soccer Schools) Empowers Grade 4 Boys from ACS International Schools with #PremierLeague Superstar Alex Iwobi from Fulham Football Club! On February 29th, 2024, VSS (Virtual Soccer Schools) hosted an impactful session with Grade 4 Boys from ACS International Schools, ushering them into a world of #inspiration, #resilience, and #teamwork. With a total of 40 enthusiastic students, aged between 9 to 10 years old, the session delved into crucial topics ranging from tackling bullying to fostering a winning football mentality, all while addressing the challenges of #OnlineAbuse. Key Discussion Points: #Bullying and #Resilience: Alex Iwobi, Nigerian international and Fulham Football Club player, shared candidly about his personal journey, including facing online bullying from fans following a challenging performance in the final of this year’s AFCON. Despite the adversity, Iwobi drew strength from his support system, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-belief in overcoming setbacks. #Teamwork and #Respect: Reflecting on his upbringing in the Arsenal academy, Iwobi emphasized the value of teamwork and respect. He underscored the significance of treating everyone with respect, highlighting that team success is built upon a foundation of mutual respect and camaraderie. Navigating #Challenges: Transitioning from Arsenal to Everton presented Iwobi with a significant hurdle. However, he expressed gratitude towards Everton for their support in integrating him into the team and overcoming initial struggles. His experience exemplifies the resilience required to adapt to new environments and thrive amidst challenges. Football #Mentality and #Fear: Iwobi imparted invaluable wisdom on cultivating a winning football mentality, emphasizing the importance of giving one's all on the pitch regardless of the outcome. Addressing his biggest footballing fear, Iwobi shared his introspective journey of self-assessment and readiness to represent his team at the highest level. Tackling #SocialMedia: In navigating the complexities of social media, Iwobi stressed the importance of connecting with his immediate family for motivation and inspiration, highlighting the power of positive relationships amidst the noise of online platforms. The VSS session with ACS International Schools and Alex Iwobi exemplifies the power of sports in shaping character, fostering resilience, and inspiring the next generation of young athletes. Through meaningful discussions and personal anecdotes, students were empowered to embrace challenges, cultivate teamwork, and navigate the digital landscape with confidence and integrity. Huge shoutout to Edem Spio, MSc (VSS African Correspondent) for his incredible work in creating this piece! #VirtualSoccerSchools #ACSInternationalSchools #AlexIwobi #SportsEmpowerment #FootballMentality #SocialMediaEtiquette Jen Baguley Robyne Simpson Graeme Lawrie MBE Barnaby Sandow Lauren Kelley Matt Constable Jakob van de Flierdt

🚩 A Call to Action: Supporting Our Young Referees 🚩 In recent times, a concerning trend has emerged in the world of sports—a significant number of young, promising referees are stepping away from the field. The reason? A disheartening level of abuse that no one should have to endure. Refereeing is more than just a job; it's a passion, an avenue for young individuals to learn invaluable life skills such as leadership, decision-making, and resilience. Yet, the increasing incidents of verbal and sometimes physical abuse are overshadowing these benefits, leading to a decline in their participation. This is not just a loss for the sports they leave behind but a stark reflection of the challenges we face in fostering a respectful, encouraging environment for our youth. As players, coaches, parents, and sports enthusiasts, we have a collective responsibility to nurture a supportive atmosphere that values the contribution of young referees. #RespectReferees #FairPlay #SupportOurRefs

Why is this 2024 England Team so Good at Penalties? They Follow Science. What an eventful Euro 2024 it has been for the England squad so far! England's recent triumph in the penalty shootout against Switzerland, and Harry Kane's spot kick against the Netherlands last night showcases the power of scientific preparation and psychological training. Under Gareth Southgate's leadership, the team has embraced academic research and sports psychology to turn their fortunes around. But what is it that has helped them find their way to another Euro's final? This article points out that: England's improved penalty strategy is informed by research from sports psychologists like Geir Jordet, focusing on social and performance psychology. Techniques include a buddy system, strategic team huddles, and controlled spot-kick routines. Seven years of preparation has boosted England's chances, with a 60% likelihood of winning shootouts against the Netherlands in their upcoming semi-final (article published before the game). In the article Jon Rhodes, PhD highlights that the meticulous, science-backed mental processes and routines are evident in the team's performance. According to Rhodes, these methods ensure players are well-prepared and resilient under pressure, contributing significantly to their success. This academic approach has not only enhanced performance but also emphasized player wellbeing, fostering a supportive team environment. Southgate's commitment to science-backed methods is paying off, and England is now a formidable force in high-pressure shootouts. #Football #Euro2024 #SportsPsychology #PenaltyShootout #GarethSouthgate #TeamEngland  #Leadership #MentalStrength #AcademicResearch

It is cool when my professional and family life collide. At the weekend I watched my nephew (well, my cousin Michael Wilson's eldest son) James Wilson score a late equaliser in the Edinburgh derby. At 17 and having now scored his second goal for the first team in two appearances, he is living the young footballer dream. It is important to recognise that this transition from Academy star (chased by a lot of Scottish, English and European clubs) to B-Team and now first team is certainly not easy. Even for someone like James who is thriving, there have been difficult periods and the future is still uncertain. I have been lucky enough to do some research examining this transition in a football academy with Scott Swainston and Martin I. Jones. Scott used really cool methods - organising weekly video diaries with academy players awaiting their professional contracts over 40 weeks. The research revealed how crucial psychological factors are - specifically how young players handle adversity, maintain motivation, and balance social support systems. Most interestingly, it showed that successful academy graduates weren't just the most talented, but those who developed strong coping mechanisms and had stable support networks. To every parent and young player out there pursuing this dream: while only about 0.012% of academy players make it to professional football, this research shows it's not just about natural talent. It's about building resilience, having strong support systems, and maintaining that delicate balance between dedication and wellbeing. Watching James embody these findings has been brilliant (as a psychologist ... and more importantly, uncle!). Check out this interview with James in an article by Fraser Wilson which touches on some some of the issues we found in our paper - including the importance of support of senior players; to managing expectations and making tough decisions about whether to move; to the reality of having to go home after the game and do his homework! https://lnkd.in/enthU-mi #HeartsFC #EdinburghDerby #FootballAcademy #YouthDevelopment #ScottishFootball #FootballFamily #HMFC"

https://lnkd.in/earRKku7 Go check out my most recent article for the ASD! ✍️ An interesting and insightful interview with Colchester United’s Dmitri Halajko. Someone who has a key focus on youth development, the way in which he operates is definitely worth a read.