O’S LEGEND RETURNS TO LEYTON FOR SKILFUL SESSION

LOCSP Press Release: Tuesday 4 August 2009
O’S LEGEND RETURNS TO LEYTON FOR SKILFUL SESSION
Matthew Joseph puts youngsters through their paces at SCORE, Leyton.

Former Leyton Orient defender Matthew Joseph was back at his old club yesterday to deliver specialist coaching sessions as part of The FA’s Tesco Skills Programme in conjunction with Leyton Orient Community Sports Programme (LOCSP).

The FA’s Tesco Skills Programme gives boys and girls aged 5-11 opportunities to develop all aspects of their game, with the coaches focusing on the technical, physical, social and psychological aspects of player development.

Former Orient defender Joseph who started at Arsenal before making over 200 appearances for the O’s between 1998 and 2004 is now the FA Skills Essex Team Leader and feels the sessions are a great way to get the kids playing comfortably.

“We aim to give the kids fundamental skills such as balance and co-ordination, getting the kids comfortable on and off the ball and to further develop their understanding of the game.

“We want the kids to really express themselves and enjoying playing football.”

And Joseph believes that the FA is a great place for him to better himself as a coach, following a respected playing career, representing England when he was younger.

“It’s a massive challenge and one that I relish; it tests me as a coach. In this project we get to work with kids from all ages and different abilities and it really broaden your horizons.

“The FA is the best place for me to learn and become a better coach. I’m working with some fantastic, likeminded coaches and I really enjoy the ethos at the FA.

“We have a massive responsibility to give the children the best guidance and understanding we possibly can.”

Joseph was working alongside LOCSP coaches at SCORE, Leyton where they are currently running their summer holiday programme of activities and events and for Daniel Fenner, LOCSP Football Development Manager it highlights the ongoing push to improve and develop the skills of the youngsters.

“Having Matthew and his fellow FA Skills coaches here this week reinforces what we are all about at Orient – helping to develop the potential of all the youngsters who come to our sessions.
“Our whole week this week is free and the FA Skills course was part of this and open to anyone who wanted to improve their technique or just learn new skills.”

For more details about The FA Tesco Skills Programme, as well as coaching videos, football tips and fun games for boys and girls of all abilities, go to www.TheFA.com/Skills.

For further information about Leyton Orient Community Sports Programme email daniel.fenner@locsp.org, call 020 8556 5973 or visit http://www.locsp.org/

Article on Leyton Orient FC website:

http://www.leytonorient.com/page/LOCSP/0,,10439~1743912,00.html