In partnership with the Ontario Soccer Association, the Eastern Ontario District Soccer Association hosted the annual Coaching Conference April 11th at the Louis Riel Dome.
The guest presenters for the day were all current coaches with the Canadian Soccer Association’s National Teams. They were eager to pass on their knowledge to all the coaches in attendance.
Bev Priestman, Women’s Excel Program U14-U17 and U17 Women’s National Team
Rob Gale, U16, U18 and U20 Men’s National Team
Michael Findlay, Men’s Senior National Team
Each presenter went through an on-field session to provide the attendees with a practical example of how they work with their teams in their regular sessions. Thanks to Ottawa Fury, Ottawa South United and West Ottawa Soccer for providing players for these sessions.
There was also a new component this year in the form of a question and answer Panel discussion. Each presenter provided an update on their current program and some of their goals moving forward with their program. The presenters then participated in a Panel discussion hosted by Graeme Ivory, Ottawa Fury and host of ‘Corner Kicks’ weekly soccer show.
The day also included the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015 Ottawa Venue team with information about ticket sales and updates on the upcoming Women’s World Cup.
Along with the new technical information gained, each coach in attendance received lunch and a complimentary ticket to the Ottawa Fury home opener April 18th. Thanks to Ottawa Fury FC for providing the tickets.
The coaches in attendance really enjoy the event and development opportunity. When asked about the Conference, Peter Menyasz, Soccer coach with West Ottawa Soccer said “It was an excellent event, and everyone I spoke to got a lot out of it. Again, thanks for putting on a great event!”
The EODSA looks forward to hosting this event again next year to provide a major Coaching Development opportunity within the district. The EODSA hopes to see everyone back next year as well as coaches that were not able to attend this year’s event.