Getting the message across...

...is always the biggest challenge, not least in a season of changing ideas to a group of individuals that each have their own way of playing, thinking and communicating. This year so far, we have introduced different dimensions in physical fitness, friendliness and formations, but this has been underpinned one approach that ties the team together. An approach that is unique as me and you. Early on in the Gaffer's tenure a comment was made "I'd love to know what goes on inside that head of yours" when referencing what the player was (another) hair-brained idea. We all have our preferences when it comes to giving and receiving messages. Anyone that has completed a psychometric test will have some idea of their personality trait and communication style, but there is more to management than knowing what your players' Jungian Archetypes are. The new name on the block is Neuro-Diversity.

Dyslexia, ADHD, Tourettes and other such conditions are more common than we realise, but they are often hidden through 'survival' techniques that lead to more observable strengths. In the same way (and even our low level and ageing years) training plans have been personalised to maximise peak performance, I have become aware of the diversity of what goes on between the ears of the players, as well as the action between the first & last whistle. Some need focus and short words, others like to talk rather than read & write, a few prefer quiet engagement and there is at least one that cannot sit still for a second. It means that as well as the Team WhatsApp Group, there are written documents, set-piece pictures and time spent listening over a coffee. Of course there's also Churchillian team talks, orders barked and jokes over a post-match pasta dish.

We would not want a team full of defenders, nor be able to expect every attacker to score from the touchline, so why do we expect everyone to process information in the same way? In the cut & thrust of a match day situation, it is easy for any coach (or player) to resort to their instinctive style or cover up to fit in. I spend much more time than I thought I would, outside of a Saturday communicating with those that want and need more than a text message with kick-off times and which position they are playing today.

I am not complaining, because the greatest gift you can give another is your time & attention... perhaps we all need to spend a little more time thinking & engaging on a Neuro level before doing & demanding on a physical front to get better results?