Success is not a destination. We have all heard this statement before, but take a second to think about your own life. Have you reached all of your goals? Have you finished everything you wanted to finish? Achieved everything you’ve hoped to achieve? The answer for the majority of us would be a resounding “no”.
The 4 corner model outlines the factors that need to be considered as a young player grows and develops in the game. Each of the corners is connected and relies on support from the other three areas. The model is appropriate for players between the ages of 5-21. The development pathway for each individual player is unique and diverse so the needs of each player will ebb and flow in all of the 4 corners. While the need for added support for some players will be minimal, others will require much more applied and specific guidance. It is important for coaches and parents to understand that each aspect of the 4 corners does not exist in isolation. Everything is connected...
Let me tell you guys a quick story that I think most of you who have been following my journey for a while will appreciate. I get a few dozen DMs/emails from high school age players every day and it never fails to amaze me how confused and sometimes lost the next generation of footballers are (at least in the states). Most of of these questions take a few seconds to reply to, but on occasion I get a message which resonates inside of me and impacts me on a deeper level.
As we approach the final stage of college commitment for the 2020 season it’s extremely important to consider all your options before making a decision that will ultimately impact the next half decade of your life. When I signed to play for the University of Memphis I had little idea of the level of contribution I would bring to the team my freshman year. I was fortunate I started 16 games my first season in college but I took a massive financial gamble in the process.
When I was a younger, maybe 13-14 years old, I was a very sensitive and shy player. I lacked determination and passion on the pitch, which ultimately led to many poor performances early in my career. I was constantly afraid I would mess up in games although my technique on the ball was always very good as a center back.
