Curious Coaches Club John Prince

Joining me this week is AFC Fylde first team coach, Andy Taylor.  Andy had a successful professional playing career as a left back for a number of clubs including Sheffield United, Blackpool and Walsall.  Having recently retired, he has moved into coaching at both first team and academy level.  We discuss his experiences as a player and coach as well as the art of full back play.

Gerard Jones is an award winning entrepreneur, coach and coach educator.  In this week's episode we discuss his approach to coach education, the influence of Osian Roberts and the importance of building a brand for yourself.

Joining me this week is Blackburn Rovers U16 coach Darragh Tuffy.  Darragh moved over from Ireland to become a scholar and then coach in the academy at Rovers.  He's been coaching at the club for 14 years and has learnt some great lessons upon the way.  We discuss how he got into coaching; how Brian Ashton influenced him as a mentor and what differentiates those that fulfill their potential.

It was my privilege this week to be joined by former Premier League defender Chris Samba.  I discovered more about his amazing journey to the top and the obstacles he overcame to become a top player.  Chris also shared his thoughts on how to maximise strengths and the coaches that influenced his development at key stages of his career.  A must listen for any coach or aspiring player.

This week I'm delighted to be joined by Doncaster Rovers Head of Foundation Phase, Michael Pedley.  We discuss the influence of current England coach Graeme Jones; his advice on how to get into academy coaching and what his club do to offer their players a variety of developmental experiences.

with me this week is Preston North End's Head of Academy Sports Science, Jake Atherton.  I was very fortunate to work with Jake for a number of years and he is one of the top up and coming sports science staff in the country.  This episode is themed around pre-season and I also gather Jake's thoughts on how coaches can work more effectively with S&C staff plus advice around talent identification of young players in relation to elite physical potential.