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PDP Editor, Dave Wright is joined by Dan Thomas, Lead Youth Development Phase Coach at Fulham FC.
Dan has a vast amount of coaching experience and has been immersed in player development at Fulham FC for 10 years. Dan specialises in working with teenage players making the transition from academy to scholarships and discusses the non-linear journey that many players experience. He also gives candid insight into the Fulham FC philosophy and the world of academy football.
Don’t miss another fantastic learning opportunity from one of England’s best developmental coaches.
Show Notes
0:00 – 2:42: Introduction, Dan’s background and coaching experience
2:42 – 5:28: Key mentors for Dan within his coaching journey
5:28 – 8:46: Relative age effect – what this is and issues it can cause
8:46 – 12:24: Common traits for players who progress successfully through the system
12:24 – 16:16: Rocky Road – Dan’s presentation on this and what it means
16:16 – 19:16: Positive areas within current academy system and also areas that could be improved
19:16 – 22:54: How to work positively with the parents of players at your club
22:54 – 26:32: Fulham FC philosophy within the academy
26:32 – 32:02: What strategies could be used to better support players 17+ to make it through to senior football
32:02 – 35:33: Are we bringing players into academies too young? How could this be improved
Key Takeaways
8:46 – 12:24: Common traits for players who progress successfully through the system
12:24 – 16:16: Rocky Road – Dan’s presentation on this and what it means
32:02 – 35:33: Are we bringing players into academies too young? How could this be improved
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