Lois Balfour, Head of The New Croft Foundation, recently participated in The Powerhouse Coaches Retreat, hosted at Bryanston School in Dorset. The three-day retreat focused on the importance of personal growth and professional development whilst working within the football industry.
The retreat, designed for coaches involved in Nike's Powerhouse Project (PHP), took place at the private school, known for its top-tier sporting facilities that annually produce international athletes across various sports. It provided an invaluable opportunity for coaches to focus on personal growth and professional development amidst their often demanding schedules.
"Working in the world of football can be life-consuming at times," Balfour said. "The retreat was a much-needed opportunity to be more present in life." Throughout the weekend, participants engaged in a variety of physical activities, including bouldering, yoga, meditation, and gym sessions, promoting the importance of maintaining physical health alongside professional responsibilities.
In addition to physical activities, the retreat emphasised personal reflection and development. "We did lots of reflection writing and personal development sessions," Balfour noted. "Taking a look back at what we have achieved, what our end goal is, and how and who we might need to help get there. This was refreshing as we can never find time to do this sort of thing!"
A highlight of the retreat was the presence of Carla Ward, the manager of Aston Villa in the Women's Super League (WSL). Ward shared her insights into the life of a WSL manager, detailing her experiences and the challenges she has faced throughout her career. Her sessions included masterclasses on weekly routines and effective staff utilisation to achieve optimal player outcomes.
Balfour also had the unique opportunity to deliver a session alongside Ward, focusing on midfield combinations.
Throughout the weekend, coaches engaged in one-on-one sessions with Ward, gaining personalised advice and enhancing their football knowledge. These interactions provided invaluable learning experiences, contributing significantly to their development as leaders in the sport.
