Category: Subscriber Exclusives

How to coach pressing & the five most common pressing triggers

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Coaching, Masterclasses, Subscriber Exclusives

Pressing was all the rage from the late 2010's to the early 2020's. Some of the most successful teams across that period played a "high-pressing" game, including Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich. But today, press and possess styles of play have started to die out. Brighton have been the best example of a team deploying a press and possess system in the Premier League this season. But they are one of only a few. For those that might be working in coaching environments or just studying how a team like Brighton become so successful at such an intense approach, here are some of the most important details.

Matheus Cunha is crazy, but that’s part of his charm

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Attacking Midfield, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Premier League, Striker, Subscriber Exclusives, Winger

Always playing on the edge, getting in the face of the opponents, and dancing his way through celebrations, Cunha is the fighting spirit that can bring United out of a slump.

Sports Analysis for Journalism & Content Creation – Ebook

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Subscriber Exclusives

I’m sure you’re already familiar with the world of sports media and journalism. You’ve probably grown up watching sports channels, seen Instagram reels, and witnessed the new wave of media begin to replace a lot of the traditional outlets. With that, I want you to think of a typical person that you’ve seen in sports media. I want you to think about how they talk, how they report, how they typically go about their time in front of the screen. Now I want you to throw all of that away.

Best Formations for 9v9 – Ebook

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coaching, Most Recent, Subscriber Exclusives

9v9 is one of the most exciting stages in the development of young players and can often be the first time they are truly able to understand positioning, formations and how to play to the strengths of their teammates. This Ebook gives coaches an opportunity to learn all the in's and out's of coaching 9v9, including tactics, formations, and game management.

Coaching Newsletter #9: Why dodgeball is the best game for all ages

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coaching, Subscriber Exclusives

One of my favourite things to do as a program facilitator? Create activities based on the interests and desires of our kids. Typically, our kids go through phases. For the first half of the year, it was all about the playground. Working to make everyday different, I'd often create games and activities that centered around … Continue reading Coaching Newsletter #9: Why dodgeball is the best game for all ages

Coaching Newsletter #8 – Being the best is overrated

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Coaching, Subscriber Exclusives

Let me tell you a secret. I’ve worked with professional athletes across a few different sports now. (That's not the secret). There’s something that’s surprised me, fascinated me, and inspired me all at the same time. One singular thing. One singular thing that they all share in common. Every single one of them. They all … Continue reading Coaching Newsletter #8 – Being the best is overrated

Coaching Newsletter #7 – The case for conserving energy – a lesson from Lionel Messi

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coaching, Subscriber Exclusives

Next time you get the urge to act without thinking, and you have time to think things through, stay patient. Take in as much information as you can. Walk. Observe. Then make every moment count once you have all the information. Save your energy for what is truly important. You'll enjoy a longer-lasting career that way, and live a more meaningful life.

Coaching Newsletter #6 – Why I quit sports before the age of thirteen

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coaching, Subscriber Exclusives

I quit hockey and basketball before the age of 13. 70% of children in North America do the same. Yet still, coaches, "leaders", and even parents make the same mistakes over and over. They create an environment that de-emphasizes fun and fulfillment. They emphasize all the wrong things instead.