HEAD of female participation, Gareth Scott, kindly gave up some of his time to discuss the upcoming season as the Bannsiders get set for a return to action…
Coleraine will have two teams competing in the NIWFA football pyramid this season as the Reserve team get under way with a clash away at Antrim Town Swifts tomorrow afternoon in Division 7 (KO 2pm).
Meanwhile, the first-team are also scheduled to compete against Maiden City Ladies away from home on Wednesday at Melvin Park Arena in Strabane (KO 7.30pm).
Supporters are encouraged to keep an eye on women’s fixtures, results and news on the club’s Facebook page and website throughout the season.
Q1. Thoughts heading into the season? How has pre-season been? Recruited some good new talent who are ready to learn?
The excitement is high for the season ahead. The buzz and camaraderie has been growing due to our Social Football programme, which was introduced pre-Christmas. This has led to a high volume of players joining the group, who are keen to play the game and subsequently represent our club both on and off the pitch.
In my role it’s crucial to create an environment of positive social connection, physical and mental well-being and psychological safety, so that the players can find their individual level, apply themselves appropriately and see how much they can contribute to the group both on and off the pitch.
Some really good players have come onboard – but also some real exceptional additions to the coaching squad – in Adam Shiels, Emma Diamond and Ciaran Duffy, joining the evergreen Simon Moore and Michael Gray. The Foundations within the women’s section of the club is building and this is mirrored in the girls’ youth section with well over 100 girls playing across six age groups.
In total we are providing football for well over 150 people and growing our culture through genuine nurture, player, person and coach development, respect for opponents and each other. A very successful Strictly event is another indicator of the interest generated. This is a genuine good news story within the club and community due to plenty of quality participation and wellbeing support. However, we now have to find a way to add performance quality as well, which we all have the capability to do.
Q2. Noticed there is also a Reserves team. Think this is a historic move for the club – what was the thinking behind that?
The Reserve team is an ambitious move only from the point of view of players wanting to put themselves out there and learn how to compete. A great girl called Emma Diamond from the town was identified and willing to help develop this part of the club and Simon Moore has stepped up to devote his time and knowledge to building the process.
It’s a natural progression to the player pathway from youth to senior club, so when numbers and group commitment was good. I have insisted on integrated training especially in this formative stage of club building as the players psychological safety is vital, especially in a world of social media toxicity.
It’s all about progression and that’s what my primary focus is, especially in building culture. The willingness is there – so let’s give it a go. It’s a privilege to be part of this development.
Q3. What are the hopes and aspirations for the season ahead?
The aspirations for the season is to keep upward momentum going in terms of participation, performance, physical competitiveness, coach development and interest generated amongst the fan base as we build this part of the club over next seasons.
I am excited to see how far forward we can go on our journey as part of the club. Any supporters or supporters’ group that want to help us out would be most welcome. Everyone that can make a positive contribution – no matter how small they feel it is – can make a huge difference in terms of adding to and building a positive environment that these players deserve and will help them fulfil their potential and ultimately lift the Club profile in the female game.