GIS Coaching & Analysis Student Recaps Watford and Barnet FC Residential 

Practical experience is viewed favourably by employers, showing them how candidates can put theory into practice in a real working environment.

This is particularly true when it comes to coaching and analysis, which is why we love providing students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the real sporting world.

Recently, MSc Football Coaching & Analysis students had the chance to do so, heading to two professional clubs in North London for a four-day residential as part of the Applying Football Principles – Tactics and Strategies module.

Jack Ashcroft is one of the student-coaches that attended, and spoke to GIS about the experience.

“It was a brilliant insight into what it’s like to work in an elite setting,” Jack began, with students spending most of the residential with the U18s players and staff at Watford FC.

“Especially,” he continued, “in the build-up to a match day from training in the week, and how you prepare your squad for the game.”

While with the squad, the GIS students observed training sessions and analysis in the lead-up to their fixture against Cardiff, as well as taking part in a workshop based on Watford’s coaching methodology and academy philosophy. 

As part of an assignment, students also spent time delivering coaching sessions at League Two side Barnet FC.

When asked about any standout takeaways from the residential, Jack then discussed how Watford managed their players’ workload. 

“The changing player load and intensity of the sessions in either the morning and afternoon, or depending on how far the match day was, was interesting to see.

“Another insight was understanding the particular moments of the opposition they look at ahead of a fixture, and how they prepare their tactics based on opposition analysis.”

But for Jack, the biggest highlight was on game day. “The team meeting before the players warmed up is what stood out to me the most. It was great to see the depth and detail they go into in such a short space of time before kick off.”

As well as an experience to discuss in future job interviews, Jack feels as though the residential gave him skills that he can put into practice in his coaching career, which has already seen him work across three continents.

“It definitely helped me develop a new level of understanding into what it’s like to work in an elite environment. 

“We learnt about how you manage your players, how the sessions differ depending on it being a morning, afternoon, pre-matchday or matchday, how you manage player load and intensity, and, most importantly, transferring the information from speaking in the classroom to delivering it on the pitch.”

Finally, we asked Jack how he feels residentials like these can help aspiring coaches going forward.

“Having these opportunities definitely helps you prepare for a future career by adding it to your CV and also meeting other professionals in the industry.

“It was an excellent visit as it gives you an idea of the level of detail and knowledge you need to work in these environments.”

Other opportunities that GIS coaching and analysis students have access to include placements at Mount Pleasant Football Academy in Jamaica and internships at RAEC Mons in Belgium. 

To learn more about the programme, view the course page, or to explore our wide range of offerings, browse our postgraduate offerings.

Article by Zakaria Anani