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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 Twenty Three - Understanding The Person
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In this episode of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme Understanding The Person — focusing on how great coaching goes beyond tactics and into truly connecting with the individuals in front of you. Our curriculum topic is Switching the Play, and our core value this week is Integrity.
We take a closer look at why switching the play is such a powerful tool in the modern game — not just as a tactical action, but as a reflection of awareness, decision-making, and understanding the bigger picture. Stuart shares practical ways coaches can teach this within their sessions, from designing constraints and directional games to helping players recognize pressure, scan effectively, and move the ball with purpose. It’s a clear, applied look at how to develop more intelligent, adaptable players.
This week’s guest is Mary Lowdon, Assistant Director of Soccer Events, who brings a unique perspective on understanding people through her work with players, parents, coaches, and customers. Mary shares how communication, first impressions, and handling conflict in high-pressure environments translate directly into coaching. Her insights offer valuable guidance on how to build trust, adapt communication styles, and create stronger relationships within your team.
A powerful reflection for every coach to take into their next session.
🎧 Step Inside The Game for an episode centered on connection, communication, and the human side of coaching.
#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #SwitchingThePlay #Integrity #Leadership #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips