About Laces
This site is dedicated to providing evidence based information for coaches of the female game. It is aimed at all coaches but specifically designed to aid volunteers and parents by giving practical advice and strategies to help players reach their potential. It also aims to help coaches understand how working with female players often requires a different approach to that of males. Our aim is to develop brave, independent and assertive individuals.
The set up of the site has been kindly supported by Leamington Lions Girls FC. The impetus for the website was parents asking questions and seeking advice on a number of aspects of player development and welfare. The websites name LACES while a shooting technique is actually derived from coaching young children and the number of times you have to shout laces to either tie or remind children to tie their laces.
The author
Currently working as a university lecturer, I have been in education for over 30 years in a range of roles that have combined high level sport with academia. This includes working at two professional football clubs and also at British Swimming with national and international athletes within swimming and water polo.
My background is both in teaching (PGCE, BSc Econ, MA Sport) and coaching (UEFA B, FA Youth Award 2). Previously I have held roles incorporating strength and conditioning (FA Fitness Diploma, BWLA, CYQ and UKSCA) and in addition, I hold a Talented Athlete Lifestyle Support (TALS) qualification.
I have been involved in working with a number of sports and individual athletes at various levels including within grassroots and up to international level. This has involved working with both male and female athletes and across a range of age groups. My own playing background is in football, having played in the National League for 5 years and also in Australia for a season.
While lecturing in Coaching and Movement mechanics, I currently volunteer at Leamington Lions Girls FC, working to develop both players and coaches.
Andrew Ellis
Disclaimer
The site is a description of the latest research with practical implications for coaches. However the information should not replace medical advice in areas where it is appropriate to contact a qualified medical practitioner, such as concussion.
