Mike Smith of Coerver Coaching

Experiences across continents and levels of the game, the power of football to bring people together, and how to put players first in youth coaching

Author

Alf Gracombe
December 19, 2024

We're back with another podcast episode, this one an interview with Mike Smith of Coerver Coaching. This episode has a lot! Running almost 90 minutes (you'll want to be match fit to take it all in), Mike's story and path through football and youth development is a rich, multicultural tapestry of experiences containing lessons for any coach, anywhere, working with young players.

In this conversation, Mike shares his journey from a young sports enthusiast in England to a college soccer player at Harvard and later a coach in the U.S. He reflects on the emotional impact of the 1966 World Cup, his experiences in organized football, and the vibrant community of the Portuguese league in Massachusetts.

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Mike discusses the evolution of youth soccer in America and his passion for coaching, emphasizing the importance of patience and understanding in developing young players. He shares his transition to Special Olympics, where he focused on creating inclusive programs that integrate individuals with and without disabilities.

The conversation also touches on his leadership roles in various organizations, including his time in Europe and his current work with Coerver Coaching, which promotes a unique methodology centered on ball mastery. Mike and I delve into the intricacies of coaching in youth sports, discussing the importance of a supportive coaching philosophy, effective communication, and the role of technology.

Finally, Mike shares insights on how new coaches can start their journey and recommends valuable resources for further learning.

I hope you enjoy this interview with Mike Smith and continue to tune into future episodes. Thanks for listening!

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“We wanted a space where we could look at innovation and look at the youth game. What does the youth game need to move on to a level that is more inclusive and is better for kids? So that was our goal.”

Mike Smith

Takeaways

  • Mike's early passion for sports shaped his career.

  • The 1966 World Cup was a significant influence on him.

  • Coaching in his youth lacked structure and technical training.

  • He found joy in coaching kids and developing their skills.

  • The importance of community in youth sports cannot be overstated.

  • Unified Sports promotes inclusion for athletes with and without disabilities.

  • Mike's leadership roles have focused on youth development.

  • Coerver Coaching emphasizes ball mastery and skill development.

  • Volunteerism is crucial in organizations like Special Olympics.

  • Mike's journey reflects the global nature of soccer and coaching. Relocating to Spain was a family decision influenced by the culture.

  • Experiencing the Guardiola era in Barcelona was transformative.

  • The Coerver methodology focuses on ball mastery and skill development.

  • Cultural differences affect coaching styles and player development.

  • Small-sided games are essential for youth training.

  • The play-practice-play model enhances learning in youth sports.

  • Coaching should prioritize individual player development.

  • Technology can both help and hinder youth sports development.

  • Coaches need to provide specific feedback to players.

  • Reading and continuous learning are vital for effective coaching.

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“How do you help coaches improve and be more connected to the players that they’re coaching?”

Mike Smith

Chapters

  • 00:00 Mike's Early Sports Journey

  • 06:33 Transition to Organized Football

  • 11:17 College Soccer Experience at Harvard

  • 16:43 Playing in the Portuguese League

  • 22:26 Coaching Journey Begins

  • 27:31 Developing Coaching Skills and Patience

  • 29:20 The Non-Linear Journey of Development

  • 30:36 Transitioning to Special Olympics

  • 32:36 Building Inclusive Sports Programs

  • 36:09 Leadership in Special Olympics

  • 37:36 Expanding Horizons: From Washington to Europe

  • 41:20 The Shift to Barcelona and Coerver Coaching

  • 44:58 The Coerver Methodology: A New Approach to Football

  • 51:53 Integrating Play and Practice in Youth Development

  • 58:23 Innovating Youth Sports: The Big Idea Sports Initiative

  • 59:48 Coaching Philosophy and Professional Influence

  • 01:02:13 The Role of Coaches in Youth Sports

  • 01:05:39 Technology in Youth Sports

  • 01:08:27 Personal Expression in Sport

  • 01:15:42 Advice for New Coaches

  • 01:20:15 Recommended Resources for Coaches

The CoachCraft Podcast

CoachCraft explores the art and impact of coaching youth sports through in-depth conversations with renowned coaches from grassroots to professional levels, revealing how exceptional mentors use athletics to shape character, build confidence, and positively impact young lives.

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