Shelbourne announce landmark coaching deal

Shelbourne FC have announced a landmark deal with Coerver Coaching, renowned as the world’s number one technical coaching programme.

The youth section at Shels will now benefit from internationally renowned coaching expertise delivered through the Coerver programme - which is already the favoured method of coaching for many junior and intermediate clubs across Ireland.

Coerver coaching comes from the work of its founder Wiel Coerver, who pioneered video analysis and structured training for youths. Coerver won the UEFA Cup with Feyenoord in 1974 - at the height of the "Total Football" era- but his system has since become dominant in coaching outside the Netherlands.

Paul Fogarty, Technical Director of the Shelbourne Schoolboy Section said: “The League of Ireland is providing a pathway for footballers in Ireland to reach the very top of the game, with the likes of Wes Hoolahan having played for Shelbourne in the past.

“We felt the Coerver method was right for us given its emphasis on technical skills and intelligent play,” Fogarty said. “We were also attracted by its emphasis on shaping attitudes and moral behaviours in young players, as that is crucial for anyone to progress in the game”.

Austin Speight, a former coach at West Ham, Manchester City and Blackburn Rovers, will personally oversee the program - as Ireland director for Coerver Coaching - and deliver the coach education sessions for Shelbourne.

“Coerver Coaching are very pleased to link up with Shelbourne who have a great past history and reputation in Irish professional football,” said Speight. “I have been very impressed by the staff at the club and their enthusiasm to bring Coerver Coaching into the club, develop their players and staff & to get this program moving.”