The Welsh Way - Inside the 'Harvard of coaching'

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Gael Clichy places his virtual reality headset on, stands up, and moves about the room, making sure to avoid colliding with two-time World Cup champion Brandi Chastain, who is also equipped with the same device and figuring out strategies to counter Brighton's pressing style.

On the opposite side of the room, Yohan Cabaye, the former France and Newcastle midfielder, seeks a solution, while Stoke's sporting director Jonathan Walters contemplates his next strategy.

Welcome to the Celtic Manor hotel located near Newport, which is hosting some of the concluding sessions for the highest coaching qualification in the sport, the Uefa Pro Licence, by the Football Association of Wales.

Such qualifications are essential for managing at the highest level, and this particular program attracts some of the most prominent figures in football, as evidenced by its alumni that includes Thierry Henry, Yaya Toure, Roberto Martinez, and Mikel Arteta.

The current attendees represent a wide array of backgrounds, featuring recognizable names from former Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool midfielder Nuri Sahin to Wales manager Rhian Wilkinson, along with Caernarfon Town manager Richard Davies and Nice's captain and Brazilian international Dante.

Having been brought together two years prior, Dante mentions that this group now "feels like a family."

With their B and A Licences already completed, the cohort of 2025 is now nearing the final stages of their Pro Licence, preparing to advance in their coaching careers.

With the rare opportunity for unfettered access, Sport provides a glimpse behind the scenes of what Sahin describes as the "Harvard for coaching."

From rugby with the All Blacks to military training

Having participated and coached at the Champions League level with top teams such as Real Madrid and Dortmund, former Turkish international Sahin finds himself comfortable in elite football environments.

He also possesses knowledge from premier educational institutions, having studied sports management at Harvard Business School.

Thus, Sahin's evaluation of the FAW's Pro Licence course carries significant weight.

"I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge," he states. "This will equip me not only for my coaching aspirations but for life in general.

"I experienced something similar at Harvard, and this is akin to Harvard for coaching.

"I’ve relished every moment on this course, along with these individuals. There’s something special about this place. We’ve formed a connection, and I’m certain we will remain bonded for our lives."

This demanding course necessitates that participants dedicate substantial time, both at home—wherever that may be globally—and during their engagement periods with the FAW.

Throughout this extended weekend in May, they must undertake practical assessments and training activities on the pitch at Dragon Park in Newport, while their sessions at the nearby Celtic Manor feature virtual reality seminars, tactical theory exercises, and individualized presentations.

"I created my unique report concerning the All Blacks," states Sahin. "It was crucial for me to examine a team outside of football, focusing on their culture and experiencing that culture. They exemplify this perfectly, and I know very little about rugby.

"What I discovered is the significance of culture, honoring the nation, the jersey, the values, and being good individuals. My aim is to achieve success with honorable people."

The breadth of football knowledge needed is significant, and the technical intricacies are detailed. Participants frequently step beyond their usual boundaries in this course.

"We took a trip to collaborate with the army for three days where we were deprived of sleep, and we had to complete missions while extremely fatigued," shares Clichy, who was part of Arsenal's Invincibles team in 2004.

"The portions of food we were given were very small, and you come to understand how this impacts you, influencing your decisions regarding football.

"In a critical match, when you're trailing 2-0, and despite having a plan throughout the week, suddenly you're behind; how do you manage the situation? That experience taught us a novel approach to handling pressure."

Bonding over shared struggles and fostering unexpected connections

Activities like engaging with the army serve as equalizers for this group.

Regardless of whether someone has competed at the highest level or managed semi-professional teams, there is a noticeable feeling of equality among them.

“People enjoy hearing anecdotes about Pep [Guardiola] and Arsene Wenger, but my goal is to become a top coach,” Clichy asserts.

"I recognize that there is a significant likelihood that I'll begin my career at a foundational level. Those individuals who have spent two decades in the professional realm after starting in amateur football can provide me with immense insights because my understanding of the sport constitutes perhaps only three to five percent of what football encompasses.

"Participating in football for over 20 years with clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City is not representative of the true essence of the sport. Such experiences are exceptional and require careful comprehension. Therefore, as a coach, if I am fortunate enough to progress and reach that level someday, it would be incredible. However, I am fully aware that I must begin from the ground up, and these experienced individuals can enlighten me about the reality of it."

In practical terms, the exchange of wisdom among these individuals offers invaluable lessons for all involved.

On a more personal level, the journey has been deeply impactful.

"During the initial days of our course last March or April, we were tasked with delivering a presentation centered around the four Hs, which encompass your history, heartache, heroes, and hopes," shares Adie Harvey, who coaches the Under-16 boys team for Wales.

"Each participant had to present to the entire group, which was quite intimidating considering the expertise of the participants. However, this exercise removed any semblance of hierarchy or ego within the group and fostered genuine connections among us.

"I drew tremendous strength from hearing the stories of others and their experiences. Everyone has faced some sort of tragedy or sorrow, which truly bonded us and provided significant support for us as a collective."

As a result, the relationships formed extend beyond mere professional connections to genuine friendships.

"It feels like we've become a family, so we will definitely maintain our connections," states Davies, who leads a semi-professional team in Caernarfon in the Cymru Premier, the highest level of football in Wales.

"We are indeed like a family," Dante concurs. "We grow together and share all our experiences.

"Richard is exceptionally passionate. I was impressed by the depth of emotion he conveys, and I believe every coach should possess that kind of emotion within them."

Standing alongside the towering former Bayern Munich player, Davies comments, "For me, it's the insight that Dante possesses. He continues to compete at the highest level, and his accomplishments in the sport are extraordinary.

"Having the opportunity for these discussions and tapping into his perspective on the game is invaluable for me. I am engaging with someone who has coached in the Welsh Premier League and who has experience in the Champions League and World Cup. Without participating in this course, I would never have connected with someone like Dante."

These are lasting relationships that go beyond the typical hierarchy in football, as evidenced by course alumni, including former Newport manager Mike Flynn, who remains part of a WhatsApp group with Henry and Arsenal's manager Mikel Arteta.

Transforming the game, from Chastain to Wilkinson

While many here are just embarking on their coaching paths, others have already established themselves as competent managers.

One of the individuals involved is Rhian Wilkinson, the manager of the Wales women's team, who is balancing her academic pursuits with the preparations for the upcoming Euros this summer.

"It's a considerable amount, but I never want to forgo these opportunities. Firstly, it's about reconnecting with others, and equally, there's that thrill of learning. One never truly stops learning," Wilkinson shares.

"Someone might comment, 'Well, Pep used to handle it this way' or 'Jurgen Klopp would approach it like that,' and we even have Brandi Chastain here as well. This is the direction we’re aiming for with the FAW.

"This is a space where elite male figures in the sport wish to come and gain knowledge, but it’s also imperative that we begin to focus on women more seriously. This marks a significant advancement for the women’s game."

It’s undeniable that this sport and professional field is predominantly male. That's just the reality of the situation. My role involves actively striving to create opportunities or present examples of women who can establish careers in the sport. I owe this ability to trailblazers like Brandi Chastain, who paved the way before me.

Chastain's involvement provides a significant boost to the program. With a remarkable record that includes two World Cup victories and two Olympic gold medals, she is a highly recognizable figure in women's soccer, having earned 192 caps for the United States.

In addition to speaking at the FAW National Coaching Conference, Chastain participates in the Pro Licence sessions alongside the participants of the course.

"I have dedicated 50 years to football and understand the lessons and insights that can benefit young girls and women," she remarks.

"Engagement through sports empowers young girls to discover their voices, strength, and potential. Research indicates that those who play sports evolve into women who take on leadership roles.

"The data shows that they often ascend to executive positions and become influential decision-makers, which brings about substantial change in society.

"I hope to share some enjoyable anecdotes, but also emphasize how essential effective coaching is for young athletes. Our collective aim is to enhance the game for everyone, including both men and women."

Among other guest speakers at the conference are Craig Bellamy, head coach of the Wales men's team, and recently appointed Rangers manager Russell Martin, who share their football philosophies with an audience of hundreds at Celtic Manor.

"This is my passion," Bellamy expresses. "This sport connects you with many individuals, and I am always receptive to different perspectives. I view everything as a puzzle and attempt to incorporate ideas from others into this puzzle.

"Can you communicate with genuine enthusiasm? I was fortunate to have a manager like Sir Bobby Robson, who instilled that in me. Regardless of whether his approach was right or wrong, his enthusiasm inspired you to follow his lead.

"I have played under a variety of managers—both good and bad—and I diligently sought to learn from each experience. Reflecting on my own journey, I remember what resonated with me as a player, given that I was quite complex. I required a purpose, and some coaches found that daunting, while I embraced it. Understanding the reasons behind my actions is essential."

The traditional and the contemporary Welsh Method

In their unique styles, both Bellamy and Martin embody the forward-thinking movements of modern football, focusing on possession-based tactics and building play from the back.

A majority of emerging coaches seem eager to pursue this approach, as evidenced by this year’s group of FAW Pro Licence candidates engaging in activities both on and off the field.

However, there remains an appreciation for traditional methods on this program.

On the concluding day, Tony Pulis, the former Stoke City manager, is asked to conduct a masterclass focused on set-pieces. The weather is a mix of rain and wind on that Tuesday. It’s how it should be.

Before his hands-on demonstration on the pitch at the drenched Dragon Park, he shares insights from his career with the Pro Licence group, and it is invaluable.

Pulis is clearly thriving as he shares anecdotes about his modest beginnings in both playing and coaching, followed by his various stints as a manager, with each piece of advice punctuated by entertaining stories that could easily secure him a role in the after-dinner speaking arena.

The 67-year-old from Wales has the audience in stitches, and at times, a chuckling Dante turns to those seated next to him for assistance in understanding Pulis's strong Newport accent and earthy language.

Amidst the humor lie numerous insightful lessons, as Pulis tackles questions on a range of subjects, from the support he received from his colleagues, including Sir Alex Ferguson and Carlo Ancelotti, to managing family commitments alongside the extensive traveling that management demands.

He then moves onto the field for the practical session with a group of young athletes, braving the rain while issuing commands as if preparing them for a long-throw akin to Rory Delap's.

"It’s always a pleasure to return to Wales and Newport. This place holds a special significance for me; it’s my hometown," Pulis expresses.

"I cherished playing for my local club and enjoying the game on the streets. It’s rewarding to return and contribute to football, assisting those who are beginning their careers.

"Set-plays have consistently played a crucial role in football and, in my opinion, they are often underestimated. Mikel Arteta’s work with Arsenal—a major club in both England and globally—has once again highlighted their importance.

"I have experienced an incredible career, and the landscape of the sport has evolved. During my first training session at Gillingham, we had to remove the goals from the main pitch and transport them on a tractor to a park, where we trained amidst dog walkers and passersby. Now, look at the facilities available today… it’s the best sport in the world, and it’s our sport."

Listening with keen interest to Pulis, just as the budding coaches are, and laughing heartily at the anecdotes, is Dave Adams, who oversees the course.

In his role as the FAW’s chief football officer, Adams manages both men’s and women’s football across all tiers in Wales.

Last year, he appointed the head coaches for both senior national teams and, in addition to his efforts to advance Welsh football, he leads the Pro Licence course.

"I am building upon the efforts of others to some extent. Osian Roberts, the former FAW technical director, did an outstanding job in establishing a top-tier program," states Adams.

"When I took over in 2019, my goal was to engage with head coaches in the market because, ultimately, we need a course that caters to the intricate and multifaceted requirements of head coaches. Our approach is heavily based on practical, real-world learning. We aim to avoid abstract concepts since coaching is a practical skill."

"We receive nearly 400 applications for 20 Pro Licence positions every two years. The competition is intense. We have to support our Welsh coaches, like Chris Gunter, as well as others affiliated with our national association. At the same time, we understand that having figures like Nuri Sahin, Mikel Arteta, Chris Wilder, Roberto Martinez, and Steve Cooper, among others, brings a fresh perspective; they not only benefit from us but also provide us with valuable insights."

"These individuals have coached at the highest tiers of the game. We recognize that inviting such talent is not just about supporting them; it is also about learning from them, which aids in the development of our association. We gain knowledge that can enhance our programs or national teams, contributing to our growth as well."

Central to the FAW’s initiatives is the principle of the Welsh Way, an ethos that influences everything from top-tier football to grassroots level—a vision for the development of the game in Wales and the promotion of national pride.

"Our mantra is ‘Together Stronger.’ In a compact organization, being nimble, dynamic, and ensuring that everyone feels part of a collective purpose is crucial," Adams elaborates.

"In an environment focused on high-performance coaching, unity is essential. Every role, from the head coach to the masseur or chef, plays an important part and must buy into the head coach's vision."

"It is vital that we embrace that mantra, as it informs all our activities. Why should we aim low? Let us aspire greatly. Though we are a small nation, we possess remarkable talent. We focus on the fine details, which provides us with a competitive edge at the highest levels.”