The fourth instalment of the Engen Coach the Coach was yet another successful skills development session in the Durban South region where 42 coaches were put through their paces by professionals in the footballing community. Kwanele Kopo who was is the former Assistant to Supersport United Head Coach Cavin took the coaches through what it takes to make it to that level in the Premier Soccer League.

Kopo discussed both the technical and tactical aspects of coaching through understanding football and how different senior coaches are to youth coaches. This session included points such as being an effective player, youth development and the general aims of the different age groups.

The now Technical Director at Supersport United, Kopo then took the coaches on to the field to demonstrate the practical side of football which included what the requirements are for a training session, effectively planning a training session and what the structure of that training session will be.

The discussion floor was then opened to all coached when they could ask the panel questions related to coaching. This discussion was attended by South Africa’s most decorated footballer of all time, Jabu Mahlangu.

Mahlangu spoke about what it takes to mentally prepare the youth for when they make it into the Premier Soccer League. How discipline and hardwork takes effect when becoming a pro-footballer and how the teaching of the youth coach plays an essential role.

Paul Makhanya, the Stakeholder Liaison Specialist at Engen Refinery in Durban stated that coaches play a significant role in the young footballers’ lives. “They don’t only contribute to their success on the field, but you are also a role model to many and for some, a father/mother figure. This is why Engen feel that is it imperative that we equip you with the essential skills that you may need both on and off the field.” said Makhanya.

Issued on 30 September 2014 by: Openfield on behalf of Engen Petroleum
For more information:                Candice George
                                                    073 782 8935
                                                    021 448 7777
                                                    candice@openfield.co.za