NEWS

GUEST INTERVIEW: CHARLIE BREWSTER

Charlie Brewster has been Northampton Towns Youth Development Officer for two seasons and has been part of the youth system at Northampton for a number of years. In working within the professional game Charlie first started at Peterborough where he was part of an extremely successful lower division youth system. Since working at Northampton Town he has been looking to use this invaluable experience to the benefit of players coming through the Centre of Excellence.

Q: What were your motivations in getting involved with coaching youth football and developing your own career in the industry? A; Through my own son wanting to play, and no one to manage a group of under 8`s, I thought if I was going to work with them I should know what I am talking about, so I enrolled on a coaching course. Later I was then introduced to Kit Carson at Norwich and was offered a coaching role when Kit moved to Peterborough United. Q: What do you think are the most important skills a child needs in developing their football skills? A; The correct attitude, and a desire to improve, there are many talented players that have wasted their talents due to the lack of these two qualities. Q: As a Youth Development Officer what characteristics are you looking for, when taking a player into the COE? A; Attitude, Application, Ability Q: As players get older what additional skills do they need in making it as a COE player? A; Again continued good attitude, both footed and be able to receive, understand and act on information. Q: In producing future professional players is football ability alone enough for them to make it through to make it as a pro? A; No there are many other factors that effect performance, mental state, diet, rest etc if you are poor at these things then regardless of ability, performance will be effected. Q: What part can parents play in developing their child's football, both as a COE parent and that of a recreational player? A; Supporting and encouragement to do things properly, not get caught up in a winning mentality. Q: What changes would you make to youth football in England? A; More investment in training and match facilities and move the season to the summer for our young players. Q: What advice would you give to any players wanting to become professional footballers. A; No one will hand it to you on a plate, you must work hard and be prepared to make sacrifices. Football Development Schools would like to take this opportunity in thanking Charlie for his time in  answering our questions and hope that this will be the first of many guest interviews to take place on the website.