Inspiring First Session of SSS Coaching Network

With ‘Learning & People’ being one of the key areas of development work for SSS as we move forward from the pandemic, the SSS Coaching Network has been launched to support the development of coaches at all stages of their coaching journey.

Student sport in Scotland is home to a huge number of coaches, whether that’s coaching intramural, recreational teams or elite performers on Olympic, Paralympic or Commonwealth pathways. Without this network of coaches student sport wouldn’t deliver the breadth or quality of opportunity that it does.

This introductory session brought together coaches from across the SSS membership. 11 different sports were represented on the call, demonstrating the diversity of experience available within the group. One of the key aims of the group is to allow coaches to learn different approaches, coaching methods and skills – having coaches from multiple sports has already proved beneficial to participants!

This opening session included a presentation on Clean Sport from Sarah Gandon, Player Development Manager at Netball Players Association and Netball Coach at the University of Glasgow. It was a vital reminder that coaches at any level hold some responsibility for educating athletes and ensuring they know what they are putting in their bodies.

We also gained insight on coaching young people from Andy Goldie, Academy Director at Dundee United. Andy talked us through the ‘Messy Middle’ in young players development journey, and we learned about the culture within one of Scotlands top youth academies. Andy praised the value of volunteering across a variety of sports and how that supported his own development.

There will be numerous sessions throughout the year as we look to provide support for all coaches within the Scottish Student Sport community. The next session on October 19^th will look at Concussion and Mental Health. We’ll also offer the opportunity to participate in a mentoring programme for more experienced coaches to share insight and best practices with their less experienced counterparts.

If you would like to join the Coaching Network you can join our Basecamp group and get involved in the conversation by clicking HERE.

Miss the webinar? Re-watch all the action here! 💻 👇