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Inside The Game
Inside The Game is a weekly podcast with Stuart Sharples, hosted by Steel United, designed to support coaches, players, and parents by breaking down key topics from our coaching curriculum. Each episode dives into a fundamental aspect of the game, explores a core value that shapes player development, and features a special guest offering insights on the weekly theme. Whether you're on the pitch or in the stands, this podcast will help you understand the game on a deeper level. Let’s step inside the game!
Inside The Game
Episode Eighteen - The Coaching Journey
In Week 8 of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores A Coach’s Journey — the ups, downs, and defining moments that shape who we are on the sidelines. Our curriculum topic is Defensive Transitions, and our core value is Commitment.
Stuart breaks down the 3 D’s of defending — Deny, Delay, and Deflect — and how these principles guide a team’s reaction after losing possession. He shares how coaches can design sessions that mirror realistic pressing distances and encourage players to recover, reorganize, and defend with purpose. For younger players, he introduces the “surfer stance” analogy to teach balance and body shape when defending one-on-one, making defensive habits relatable and fun.
This week’s guest is Adam Fine, who’s just over a year into his coaching career after transitioning from a business background. Adam reflects on the challenges of starting out, what keeps him motivated, and how commitment has become a driving force in his development as a coach.
We close with the Coaching Question of the Week: “Which team or coach do you take inspiration from in your own coaching style?” A reminder to keep learning from those who bring passion, purpose, and innovation to the game.
🎧 Step Inside The Game for tactical insight, practical coaching ideas, and conversations that inspire growth — both on and off the field.
#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #TheLasordaWay #DefensiveTransitions #Commitment #CoachingJourney #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips