Last week saw AFC Bournemouth host the new FA Youth Award - Module 1 for the clubs Community and Centre of Excellence coaches at Dean Court. The course was delivered by FA Tutor Tony McCallum to 18 of the clubs coaching staff.

Module 1 of the Youth Award is titled 'Developing the Environment' and focuses on coaches understanding the needs of players aged 5-11. These needs include individual learning styles, the 4 corners of development and also physical improvement through football specific activities. The course consisted of both theory and practical sessions delivered over 4 days at Dean Court. The theory topics were delivered in the Ambassador Suite, while the 1st team pre-season preparations meant the practical sessions were conducted over the road at Kings Park.

Due to the success of this course, Technical Development Officer, Jason Blake is keen for The FA to run Module 2 during the season. Jason highlighted the benefits of the course, "The course has been a success for many reasons but ultimately, the knowledge gained by the coaches will benefit the players in the Centre of Excellence, Development Centres and Community Sports Trust. It is also worth noting that most of the staff attending are part time and took time out of their full time jobs, which is an indication of their commitment to both their own development as well as the players they will be coaching."

Course Tutor, Tony McCallum added, "The FA Youth Award, which is one of the FA's new Age Appropriate Coaching qualifications is built up through 3 modules which deal with developing the learning environment, understanding and developing practice and developing the player; the coaches at AFC Bournemouth have shown a pro-active approach which should be applauded, as the opportunity for coaches to develop themselves should never be underestimated. The impact on their players will allow them to achieve their full potential and that potential could well be the professional players of the future."