Rick Fenoglio

Happy New Year, everyone! I took a little break over the holiday but I’m happy to be back with the latest from CoachCraft Podcast! The episode just dropped and it’s a fantastic interview with Rick Fenoglio, sports scientist, researcher, academy auditor and professional scout. In this episode, I sit down with an expert who brings together the worlds of sports science and soccer development. Fenoglio's journey from a multi-sport background in the U.S. to becoming an influential figure in soccer in the U.K. offers fascinating insights into youth development.

With over three decades of experience working with prestigious organizations including Manchester United, Manchester City, the English FA, and the Premier League, Fenoglio shares how his academic background in sports science has shaped his approach to player development. He provides a fascinating explanation of how the human body's 30 trillion cells adapt to different training environments, and why this matters for youth coaches and players.

The conversation delves into Fenoglio's groundbreaking research at Manchester United that helped transform youth academy training methods. His work comparing traditional 8v8 formats with 4v4 games became influential in reshaping how academies approach youth development. This research helped catalyze changes across UK soccer and beyond.

Currently serving as a worldwide senior scout for Manchester City and the City Football Group, Fenoglio offers unique perspectives on what clubs look for in players. He explains how scouting has evolved in the modern game and what young players should understand about being evaluated - from technical abilities to on-field behavior, communication, and body language.

Drawing from his experience as co-founder of the "Give Us Back Our Game" campaign and his ongoing work in coach education, Fenoglio shares insights about the evolution of youth soccer and the tensions between different coaching philosophies. His perspective, informed by both scientific research and practical experience at the highest levels of the game, offers valuable lessons for coaches working at any level of youth soccer.

Don't miss this deep dive into the science and art of developing young players, featuring someone who has helped shape modern approaches to youth development in soccer. I hope you enjoy this interview with Rick Fenoglio and continue to tune into future episodes. Thanks for listening!

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Takeaways

• Rick's childhood was filled with diverse sports experiences.

• He transitioned to soccer later in life, finding a passion for the game.

• The importance of self-driven improvement in sports is emphasized.

• Rick's move to the UK opened doors to sports science opportunities.

• Sports science in the UK was influenced by American conditioning methods.

• Understanding sports science involves physical, mental, and technical aspects.

• Small-sided games enhance player development and decision-making skills.

• The evolution of youth soccer emphasizes age-appropriate game formats.

• Motor skills are developed through complex problem-solving in training.

• Creating an environment for players to solve problems is crucial.

• Small-sided games are essential for player development.

• Age appropriateness is crucial in training methods.

• Competition can enhance engagement in youth soccer.

• Coaches should observe and adjust rather than dictate.

• Winning should be a tool for development, not the goal.

• Youth soccer differs fundamentally from adult professional soccer.

• Communication with parents is vital for coaching success.

• Trusting the game allows players to learn organically.

• Scouting focuses on impact rather than perfect technique.

• Coaches should foster a fun and engaging environment.

Selected Links from This Episode

• New England Luso American Soccer Association

• Tony Whelan

• Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport

• Manchester United Academy

  • The Manchester United 4 v 4 Pilot Scheme

  • The Manchester United 4 v 4 Pilot Scheme for U9s: Part II - The Analysis

• City Football Group

• 'In-Play' Football Coaching Group (LinkedIn)

• Radical Football Conference

• Surviving Your First Soccer Season

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.

Learn more at https://coachcraftpodcast.com.