Coaching
Formation
The ETC was founded in 2008 by Andy Rowles, Darren Waterman and Dave Eldridge; who, having spent years working at both grassroots and professional level, recognised the gap and need for a centre to help talented players progress above and beyond grassroots football. The first ETC centre (based in Southampton) originally catered to 20 gifted players. The years to follow have seen us not only establish a centre in West Sussex, but also grow our Southampton centre. Now, with a 6th centre set to be launched in July 2013, the ETC caters to over 350 talented players on a weekly basis. What makes this more impressive is that within this time, over 50 of these players having been offered/signed by professional clubs. A fantastic achievement by any account and proof that the ETC works! But don't take our word - take a look at our Testimonials.
Background
Originally from P.E teaching backgrounds; the 3 founding members of the ETC focused their talents on football. At grassroots level, they guided several teams to both League and Cup titles at both County and National level. They later progressed to working with Professional clubs before establishing ETC. And with qualifications ranging from Degrees to Fitness Instructing, including UEFA 'A' and 'B' Licenses, the 3 certainly have the knowledge and experience to help develop any young, talented player. Something they hope to do for many years to come.
ETC Training
Players at the ETC will receive one 90 minute training session a week (60 minutes for Under 8’s and 9’s). Training is held on a termly schedule corresponding to that of an academic year; as such there is no training during school half-terms.
Development
Very few players are immediately ready to make the step up from grassroots football. Most need to be given time to develop; for some it may only be a matter of months, for others however years. The ETC pledge to give every player the best possible football education.
Feedback
We believe that for a player to fully develop, they themselves need to be aware of their strengths and weaknesses; therefore we provide players and parents with feedback on a regular basis. This information is important in the development of a player and should be used as a constructive learning tool.
Grassroots
Grassroots football is a fundamental part of any player’s development. From an early age, players not only develop a love and understanding of the games, but also foster many of the necessary skills and attributes that are essential in higher-level football.
The ETC will act as an advisor for each player as they move forward in their footballing career, but will not interfere with or stop any player from playing grassroots football. The ETC should be viewed as an addition to the grassroots football to aid development, not as a substitute or replacement.
