In our “Player Developers” interview, we’re speaking with Mark Ross, Head of Academy at Wexford FC in the League of Ireland.

In the next of our “Player Developers” series of interviews, we’re speaking with Mark Ross, Head of Academy at Wexford FC in the League of Ireland.

Mark is a highly-qualified coach, holding both a UEFA A Licence AND UEFA Elite A Licence. He has also been the Director of Football and Head of Womens’ Football at Carlow Kilkenny FC.

Very exciting times ahead in Wexford & Mark is at the forefront of putting an elite culture in place across all Academy operations.

PlayerStat Data: How many years have you been working with young players on their soccer development?

Mark: Twenty-two years

PSD: What is your greatest driver/motivation within your role?

Mark: To help players reach their full potential.

PSD: What is your favourite/most cherished memory when working with young players?

Mark: Smiles.

PSD: What is the most important facet of the coach/young player relationship, in your opinion?

Mark: Trust.

PSD: What is your view on the use of performance data insights/wearables/sports psych methods across youth soccer?

Mark: A helpful learning tool - some people learn easier with visuals and they help guide the direction of learning for the player.

PSD: If you could bring one new tech innovation into your day-to-day youth soccer role, what would it be?

Mark: Video clips to back up verbal feedback.

PSD: What does success mean to you, from a youth player/team perspective?

Mark: Helping to develop well rounded, confident, ambitious people, who have self-worth, resilient and empathetic towards others.

PSD: Finally, what is your greatest piece of advice/guidance for your players on their development journey?

Mark: 1 mouth 2 ears, and 2 eyes.... use them accordingly!