A coaching workshop with Jason Ryan was held in Mallow on Friday 18th October for coaches of club players at teen and adult level.

Before a large attendance of over 70 coaches, Jason opened the workshop with a thought provoking presentation on coaching philosophy and gave some ideas on how we can keep players coming back to play and stay with the  GAA. All coaches present were advised to plan their sessions in advance but also to set out as a club, what they wish to achieve each year with teams. Jason pointed out that trying to work on every skill every year is not going to yield the results that one may wish to achieve,

Following this presentation, the coaches then went to the splendid indoor astroturf in Mallow for a practical coaching session with the North Region U 15 football squad.

The main focus here was on challenging players to make decisions at all times through the drills being worked on but also through modified and conditioned games.

Rather than telling players what to do in each match like scenario presented, the players were invited to come up with there own suggestions on how to overcome the issues. Jason pointed out that players need to be challenged all the time and that they will enjoy training and games more when they are asked to think more about what they are doing. It will also mean a better player on match days as he is less likely to be relying on the coaches instructions during the match due to his competence at solving problems for himself.

A questions and answers session followed at the end of the workshop.

Overall the coaches feedback was very positive and most went home with some new ideas to work on in their club sessions.

Damien Coleman (Hurling) : Sarsfields GAA Complex Friday 25th October

Paudie Butler (Wall Ball Workshop : Castlemartyr Monday 4th November

Liam Sheedy (Hurling)  :  Mallow GAA Complex Saturday 9th November

Seanie McGrath (Hurling/Conditioning) Monday 11th November Venue TBC

John Morrisson (Football) : Nemo Rangers Friday 15th November