STEVEN DILLON
ETS would like to introduce you to STEVEN DILLON (Coach Development Manager At NEW ZEALAND Football). We are very privileged to have Coach STEVEN as he has been doing some sensational work in NEW ZEALAND.
This week in the COACHES Corner, Coach STEVEN shares some insights and his coaching journey so far.
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Q: CAN YOU PLEASE GIVE US A BRIEF INTRO ABOUT YOURSELF - PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE?
A: I’ve been involved in football coaching since I was 16, working in community coaching programs both locally and internationally. I completed a BA (Hons) in Football Studies and have been working full-time in football since 2010. Currently, I’m the National Coach Development Manager at New Zealand Football, providing access and opportunities for over 20,000 coaches nationwide.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR COACHING PHILOSOPHY AND HOW DID YOU CREATE YOUR PHILOSOPHY?
A: My coaching philosophy is ever-evolving, influenced by my personal experiences and interactions with others. It's important to distinguish between a coaching philosophy (how you coach) and a playing philosophy (how you want your teams to play). It’s also shaped by my role in the NZF Coach Development Pathway and studying coaching behaviours both locally and internationally.
Q: IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT IS THE MOST FUNDAMENTAL SKILL FOR A PLAYER/COACH TO MASTER?
A:For coaches, a clear vision and philosophy are essential. Understanding how you approach coaching before, during, and after matches is vital. Self and others’ management—understanding yourself and your interpersonal skills—is also crucial for effective coaching.
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Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE NEW COACHES STARTING THEIR COACHING JOURNEY?
A: The best advice is to start coaching as much as possible. Theory is important, but practical experience is invaluable. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and take risks. Mistakes lead to reflection, which improves your coaching.
Q: HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH SETBACKS (POOR PERFORMANCES, INJURIES, LOSING, ETC)?
A: Setbacks are part of every sport and team. It’s important to view them in perspective and see them as learning opportunities. Over time, you’ll develop strategies to handle these situations better.
Q: WHAT IS THE BEST LIFE LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED FROM FOOTBALL?
A: The biggest lesson is learning to be yourself. Early on, you might mimic other coaches, but finding your own style and beliefs is when you truly start to grow as a coach.
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Q: WHICH COACH/MANAGER INSPIRES YOU?
A: I draw inspiration from many coaches and individuals, not just in football. Everyone has different perspectives, and there’s always something to learn from them, even if you don’t agree with their approach.
