Gills Legend and former Trinidad and Tobago International tells us how he is relishing his current work with our Girls Academy Squad.
As a player ‘Coxy’ was use to finding himself at the heart of defence at Priestfield Stadium but he now finds himself at the heart of the development of the next generation of players at the club.
Alongside studying for a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, which is equivalent to 3 A’ Levels, the Girls Academy squad continue their football development and train two to three times a week at the first team training ground, the newly developed Gym at Priestfield Stadium or at Kicks Soccer Centre in Strood.
The football programme focuses on technical and tactical sessions and also fitness and recovery. A number of the squad also play and train for our Centre of Excellence and Ladies team so the aim is to work with and complement these, with regular meetings across the departments to monitor progression.
Ian said “I took the lead with the girls training in January and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with the squad. The girls have a great attitude and willingness to learn and improve, not only as individuals but also as a group. They always give 100% commitment, are attentive and are able to adapt and digest information quickly and I’ve been very impressed by their technical ability and their thirst for knowledge.”
“I’ve really enjoyed working with the girls and it continues to be a very positive experience for me and my development as a coach. They always bring a smile to my face and I am relishing working with such a talented group of players.”
Head Girl, Hollie Musmeci said “It’s great to have a former Gills icon and International player coaching us with the experience that he has. He puts a lot of hard work in to the sessions to improve us as a team and we really enjoy working with him.”
The Academy is currently recruiting for the new season, to find out more please click here or contact Georgia Bowie, gbowie@priestfield.com or 01634 350125.