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!
