Nick Wharton our FA Club Mentor linked up with Brent Hull and Mark Yielder at their U10 and U11 sides training sessions on Wednesday.
Although all other coaches attached to the club were invited to come along there was only myself, Brent and Mark in attendance.
As I am sure Mark and Brent will agree observing Nick taking a very simple session on 'turning' gave us all plenty to consider about how we plan, structure and deliver training sessions. The plan is for Nick to work with these two sides for another few weeks with a view to him taking a back seat and observing Brent and Mark delivering sessions to offer guidance and for them to bounce ideas off. I know Nick is also keen to watch these team in a match situation to see how they bring the focus of the training sessions out in the game.
I know Brent has already sent a text to some managers expressing his view that as many coaches as possible should take the opportunity to come along and see the Mentor scheme in action. It would also give you the opportunity to have a chat with Nick if there is anything specific to your own side which he may be able to assist you with.
We have Nick available to us for this season only, I really would recommend any City coaches from any age group try and get along one Wednesday night between 5&6 on the astro at The Sheepmount and see whats going on. Following a few weeks with Brent and Mark I think Nick is planning to come along to a few sessions with my own U14 side, we train from 7-8 on the astro at Richard Rose central if this is a more convenient time for anyone.
