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Roberto Martinez chats to ICOACHKIDS

Talent Development

3 mins
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In December 2021, ICOACHKIDS co-founder Kris Van Der Haegen sat with then-manager of the Belgian Mens National Football Team, Roberto Martinez to discuss a range of topics. In this interview, Sthey discuss youth development, coaching philosophy, and creating positive sporting experiences for children.

 

Early Sporting Experiences

MartĂ­nez reflects on his childhood in football and explains how early experiences shaped his understanding of the game. He highlights the importance of enjoyment, freedom to play, and supportive coaches during childhood. According to MartĂ­nez, these formative years influence whether young players develop a lifelong passion for sport.

 

The Evolution of Youth Development

Over the past three decades, Martínez believes youth development has become far more structured and professional. While improved coaching education and sports science have raised standards, he emphasises that the child’s experience must remain the priority, rather than focusing solely on performance or results.

 

Developing Talent for Elite Football

MartĂ­nez discusses how national teams identify and develop young talent and gradually integrate players into senior squads. He stresses that development is a long-term process, requiring patience, holistic support, and strong communication between clubs, coaches, and national associations.

 

Advice for Youth Coaches

The coach offers several key recommendations for those working with children in sport:

  • Create positive, enjoyable environments where players feel safe to learn.
  • Focus on skill development and creativity, not just winning.
  • Recognise that every child develops at a different pace.
  • Ensure sport contributes to personal growth and life skills, not only athletic performance.

 

Key Message

Martínez concludes that the ultimate goal of youth sport should be to build better people as well as better players. Coaches play a crucial role in shaping young athletes’ confidence, motivation, and long-term relationship with sport.

 

Watch the full interview in the video below:

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Roberto Martinez

Roberto is a Spanish football coach and is currently the Head Coach for the Potuguese Mens National Football team. A former player, Roberto has also managed a rnage of professional football teams, including Swansea City, Wigan Athletic (where he won The FA Cup), Everton, and the Belgian Men's National Football Team (whom placed 3rd in the 2018 FIFA World Cup).
RM2

Kris Van Der Haegen

Kris is a former high school language teacher (22 years) who made a career switch 13 years ago by joining the football association. In his new job, he combined his 2 big passions: education and football. As Director of Coach Education he has an impact in Belgian football: his mission is to create the best possible training and learning environment for coaches and players. As a UEFA Jira panel member, he is responsible for quality control all over Europe to protect the quality of coaching in the future. As a founding member of ICOACHKIDS, he contributes to help all the coaches all over the world to become the best possible Children's coaches.
Kvdh

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