Coaching masterclass with England Schools ace

Technical Director at Sunderland and Gateshead Regional Talent Club (RTC), Claire McDougall-Robinson is leading a free ‘Working with talented female players’ at the next Coaches’ Clinic. Taking place at the Beacon of Light on Wednesday 23rd January (5.30-8.30pm), the workshop is open to all coaches regardless of qualification or level. The session focusing on ‘Working with talented female players’ will be split into a theory and practical session, with special guest Claire sharing her knowledge and expertise with attendees. Claire McDougall-Robinson said: “When coaching, I try to create an environment where players take ownership of their learning and development. Hopefully I can create more opportunities for players but making sure they take responsibilities and respect for these opportunities within the game.” “Our next generation is key, it’s a long journey but I guess if it wasn’t hard then it wouldn’t be rewarding.”

I have a strong passion for football and coaching and this Coaches Clinic is perfect for people who work with female players.

Claire has 10 years experience in FA England Women’s Youth Squads additionally as Physical Performance Coach working in European and World Championships. Having predominantly worked teaching in Further and Higher Education, Claire left her role to take upon a full-time role at the Foundation of Light to help guide and develop the Girls Talent Pathway. Alongside the RTC 8-16 years, she coaches the Girls Scholars, a programme is designed to help bridge the gap between the RTC and senior football. Claire’s role within the Foundation has seen the organisation’s girls football programme gain national recognition, including through the FA’s Girls Football Awards.  She has previously worked with current England players including Lucy Bronze, Demi Stokes, Jordan Nobbs and Lucy Staniforth. Coaches Clinic focuses on providing advice and support to coaches who are looking for tips to help enhance the environment they provide for players in their sessions and to provide information regarding her own personal experiences. The practical session will utilise the Sunderland RTC under 16s squad and an exemplar session shown from their current technical program. Claire is one of very few women with a UEFA A Licence and in January 2014 became Head Coach to Sunderland Ladies AFC. Working as part of a strong management team they went on to win the Women’s Super League 2 that year. To continue her development, she currently works for English Schools FA as their Girls’ National Manager supporting staff and players in International Experience and Development. Claire works for the FA as an Affiliated Tutor and Coach Mentor helping to evolve the next generation of enthusiastic coaches in all levels of the games from grassroots, pathway and high performing coaches.