Coaches and players from our MK, Bucks & Beds centres attended the recent Paco Sedano workshop,
hosted at University of Nottingham Sports Campus by GK Icon and Lead England Futsal GK Coach, Tony Elliot. Paco was on hand to share his experience of Futsal in Spain, the approach to GK Coaching at a local and national level and give a first-hand account of his motivation and focus on staying at the top of the game for over 20yrs, winning every major domestic and international honour available.
The first part of the day introduced us to Paco’s background and view on the current state of the game in Spain and plans for future coaching pathways. Assisted by one of the current Uni of Notts players as an interpreter, Paco’s humble and amiable approach had the audience hanging on every word. As the day went on, so did Paco’s confidence with his English and the smile widened as the Futsal Q&A flowed way past it’s allotted time!
The practical workshops gave players and coaches a great opportunity to interact with Paco, Tony and his coaching team for the day, including England #1 Mark Croft. GK’s were split into groups and worked through drills focussing on developing ‘the cross’ with insights from Paco on improving technique and decision making, finishing off with game-based activities and an opportunity for all to interact. The second workshop offered another unique opportunity for Tony to lead Paco in his final workout before retirement, working on activation/warm-ups, drills and lots of game-based scenario’s, all relevant to our grassroots game and perfectly executed! Interesting to observe Paco tape his wrists and hands, explaining his philosophy on why - some fantastic inside info!
The day was wrapped up the day with a walk through the 2016 Euro’s, preparation and meticulous attention to detail during the tournament and beyond. Plenty of time for Q&A, autographs and a few quick words to inspire! ‘ Paco retires from 20yrs at the top of his trade this season, finishing his career at Barcelona and bowing out at the top of the International game at the Euro’s, with defeat in the final to Ricardino’s Portugal side. The end of an era, but the start of a coaching journey that has affected so many in such a positive way. Good luck for the future and hope to see you in the UK again soon!