Ian Farquhar

My personal coaching experience is centered around 1on1 individual training. The benefits of private training can be life-changing, giving players confidence in their ability outside of team training. I first began training the younger generation in my neighborhood (East Cobb) and soon after was offered group training with their friends. I enjoyed participating in summer-camps at NASA Tophat and had a great experience learning how to work with the young ages of 4-6 years. With my 19 years of experience, I found a passion for teaching younger athletes because I learn something new every time I coach. Every player expresses themselves differently on and off the pitch, and my goal is to bring out their confidence, be themselves, and enjoy the moment. I have no certifications for coaching, but was fortunate enough to be coached by some of the top coaches in Georgia: Dave Smith, Todd Gispert, Ray Tomlin, Tony Annon, and Roberto Sabaja. I also recieved a life-changing learning experience from the West Ham Academy Coaches; seeing different styles of play for the first time at a young age.

-Midfielder/Center-Attacking Mid
-D1 at the University of Kentucky- Coached by Johan Cedegren (7th Season)- Conference USA Title, Elite 8 appearance, 19-2-1 (7-1-0 Conference USA)
-D3 at Oglethorpe University- Coached by Jon Akin where I earned First Team All-Region, First Team All-Conference, SAA All-tournament team, and SAA Soccer Offensive Player of the Week.
-Developmental Academy
-ODP
-West Ham United Trial @ Upton Park, England at age 10
-2x 3v3 National Champions
-Captain USSDA GA United U-16, Disney Showcase ('16) DA Showcase ('16) Indiana Showcase ('16) Dallas Cup ('12) 2X Disney 3v3 National Champion ('15,'14) VW Tournament- Home Depot Center ('11) ODP Region Camp ('13)
International: USSDA Georgia United U14 England Tour - Man City, Leicester, Fulham ('14), Academy Experience with West Ham ('10).
Family History: My dad, Richard, played college soccer at Ohio Wesleyan. My aunts, Amy Jackson and Lori Farquhar played soccer at the University of New Hampshire and the University of Rhode Island respectively.

Session Plan: Private Soccer Training for Elite Athletes

Objective: Enhance overall performance and develop barefoot strength for elite soccer players.

Duration: 60 minutes

Warm-up (10 minutes):
1. Dynamic stretches: Perform leg swings, high knees, butt kicks, and side lunges to activate the muscles and increase range of motion.
2. Agility ladder drills: Engage in quick footwork exercises through the ladder, focusing on speed and coordination.

Main Session (40 minutes):
1. Technical drills (20 minutes):
a. Passing and receiving: Practice accurate short and long passes, focusing on proper technique and weight distribution.
b. Dribbling drills: Work on close control, change of direction, and quick acceleration.
c. Shooting practice: Improve shooting accuracy and power by taking shots from different angles and distances.

2. Barefoot strengthening exercises (20 minutes):
a. Balance and stability exercises: Perform single-leg balances, reaching exercises, and mini squats to strengthen the muscles and improve stability.
b. Toe curls: Place small objects on the ground and use your toes to pick them up and release them, strengthening the muscles in the feet.
c. Ankle mobility exercises: Perform ankle rotations, dorsiflexion, and plantarflexion exercises to enhance ankle flexibility and range of motion.
d. Barefoot jumping and landing: Execute controlled jumps and landings on soft surfaces to enhance foot and ankle strength and proprioception.

Cool-down (10 minutes):
1. Static stretches: Engage in static stretches targeting major muscle groups, holding each stretch for 20-30 seconds to promote flexibility and aid in recovery.
2. Foam rolling: Use a foam roller to release any tightness or tension in the muscles.

Note: It is essential to ensure proper technique and safety during the session. Monitor athletes' form closely and provide feedback and corrections when necessary. Hydration breaks should be incorporated as needed throughout the training.