Few people these days appreciate how connected the body and mind are.  What we eat, how we sleep, and how active we are affects our moods.  And how we are feeling affects our energy levels, our appetite and even our ability to carry out activities.

The ISFA (Independent Schools FA) sent a letter to all member schools over the summer. It’s concerned about the impact of the professional, televised game on player and coach conduct.  

It’s been a cracking half-term of soccer. Since September, boys and their coaches have been engaged in practice and enjoying school fixtures.  

A few years ago we were in the exciting position of considering a choice between Chorister or Quirister for our eldest son. “I have to be a Chorister” came the determined reply. On asking why that was such a firm answer, the response was “Have you seen the cathedral, I have to sing in there!”

A year ago we had a similar discussion with our younger son. A calm and happy boy told us that he definitely wanted to be a Quirister because they were going on a tour abroad and he wanted to be at home for Christmas. 

And so our dual journey began this term and we are all loving every minute of it! Peter and Alex get to board together and see each other regularly while we make the decision four times a week; do we head out of the back of the Yard, to the College chapel, or through the front gate to the Cathedral. What a privilege to have these choices!

Andrew Short, Head of Sport writes...

The FA Youth Development Review discusses the attitudes of adults watching soccer. Don’t worry, it’s not just parents who get some flak, but coaches too, especially those who give constant instruction from the touchline. A major part of the FA Review concerned the attitudes of adults coaching or watching children’s football. There is concern about coaches who feel it necessary to give constant instruction from the touchline, rather than permitting young players to develop a love for the game, experiment, and learn from their own mistakes. Too often the result of matches and competitions is far more important to the adults than to the children, who play the game for fun and enjoyment. 

As long as remember to keep the players' enjoyment at the centre and encourage experimentation that allows learning from mistakes, we will end up with more skilful players who love the game.