Researchers from the University of Chichester have been invited to share their football coaching expertise with Brentford FC, underlining the university’s growing influence on elite sport.
David Eldridge, Senior Lecturer in Physical Education, and Dr Chris Pocock, Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology, delivered a programme of sessions at Brentford’s training ground, working with academy coaches across a range of age groups.
The invitation came from Brentford FC’s Assistant Head of Academy Football Development, Lee Smith, and reflects increasing interest in the university’s research into visual exploratory activity, also known as scanning, and practice design in football.
The sessions were based on ongoing research by Eldridge and Pocock, alongside Dr Craig Pulling and James Feist, exploring how players scan their surroundings to improve decision-making and performance on the ball.
The programme included a research workshop, a question-and-answer session, and practical on-pitch coaching demonstrating how scanning behaviours can be built into training.
Coaches from across Brentford’s academy attended, along with sport psychologists and PhD researchers.
Reflecting on the invitation, Chris said the opportunity demonstrated how academic research can inform practice at the highest level of sport: “It is rewarding that our research in this field has been recognised and is of interest to professional football clubs exploring ways to optimise practice design. We really enjoyed sharing sessions that combined research evidence with practical coaching examples.”
David added: “It was a pleasure to share our ongoing research and we really enjoyed the discussions with the staff at Brentford FC. It was great to see our research inform ideas for future practice design at a Premier League football club.”
Lee Smith praised the sessions, saying: “It was a really insightful and thought-provoking session. Our coaches took loads away and I’m sure it will influence future practice - thanks again.”
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