DAVE LAWRENCE
ETS would like to introduce you to DAVE LAWRENCE (Head of Sport for The Albion Foundation). We are very excited to have coach DAVE on the blog as some of you may recognize him from our recent clinic. We were extremely lucky to have Dave join us in SA and to share his vast experience.
This week on THE COACHES CORNER, Coach DAVE shares some insight into his coaching journey so far.
Q: CAN YOU PLEASE GIVE US A BRIEF INTRO ABOUT YOURSELF - PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE?
A: I'm Dave Lawrence, Head of Sport for The Albion Foundation. My coaching journey began over 17 years ago, after I realized my football career wouldn’t go as far as I'd hoped. At 15/16, I shifted my focus to coaching, which I always loved. I started my football career at a young age and moved into coaching women’s football as WBA Manager. My ambition is to lead the best community program in the country and help young players achieve their goals.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR COACHING PHILOSOPHY AND HOW DID YOU CREATE YOUR PHILOSOPHY?
A: I’m deeply interested in psychology within coaching. It’s vital to help players grow as individuals, not just on the field. I focus on proper gameplay and transitions while developing players to perform well in key moments. However, I understand that the philosophy needs to be adaptable based on your team’s needs.
Q: WHAT IS THE MOST FUNDAMENTAL SKILL FOR A PLAYER/COACH TO MASTER?
A: A player must be able to control the ball both when standing still and on the move. The game is fast, and players need to be able to pass and shoot while in motion.
Q: HOW DO YOU MANAGE THE DIFFERENT ABILITIES OF PLAYERS WITHIN YOUR SQUADS?
A: I design sessions that aren’t a "one size fits all." I cater to different skill levels by making tasks easier for those struggling and more challenging for those excelling. Understanding your players and the challenges they need is key.
Q: HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH SETBACKS (POOR PERFORMANCES, INJURIES, LOSING, ETC)?
A: Setbacks are opportunities for learning. They teach perseverance, positivity, and teamwork. It’s essential to listen to your players, understand their feelings, and help them build confidence.
Q: WHAT IS THE BEST LIFE LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED FROM FOOTBALL?
A:"Fail to prepare, prepare to fail."
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Q: WHICH COACH/MANAGER INSPIRES YOU?
A:Sir Bobby Robson has always been my inspiration due to his character and role as a teacher. While I’ve read books by coaches like Guardiola and Mourinho, Bobby Robson remains the one I admire most.
