BiG TEN EM Programme

 
 

Between January 2015 and April 2016 BiG, in partnership with Ten-Em-Bee Sports Development Centre, piloted its Elite football development programme – The BiG TEN EM Football Development Programme. The programme is designed and targeted at young players who stand out at local level but need support to get to their next developmental stage. The programme focussed on improving young players mental strengths helping them to think football as well as play it!
 

“I noticed that my players are more confident with and without the ball since being on the programme!”

The programme was delivered in line with the FAs Long Term Players Development Plan and based on the BiG Football Development Philosophy and the players were coached in 10 sessions’ terms following a carefully structured syllabus. As BiG mentors young people using football and PE related activities, it will not be a surprise to hear that the programme paid special attention to the psychological and social sides of the FA’s 4 corners, helping the players to think football and play with understanding, confidence and self belief, quicken their game and as part of a team demonstrating good communication skills.

I was supported on the BiG TEN EM Development Football programme by Michael Howell who was engaged in an Apprenticeship Scheme. There were 20 players on the programme between the ages of 11 and 13 who all had to meet the ‘minimum standards’ requirements including going through a trial process to demonstrate that they met the required selection criteria.

“My son’s manager has noticed that his communication in matches and reading of the game has improved”

The pilot was a success with lots of lessons leaned which I will now take on board when delivering The BiG Elite Development Programme!