The NBL Takeover for 23/24 February will see Cardiff Met Archers take over the NBL Instagram story.
We caught up with Archers' Coach Craig Tedridge ahead of their takeover weekend, for the first our two Coach Spotlight feature's.
COACH SPOTLIGHT
Name: Craig Tedridge
Team: Cardiff Met Archers Under 12 and Under 18 Men
What brought you into coaching?
I have been inspired by past coaches, who have helped me to understand the sport, my strengths and weaknesses and motivated me to keep participating. When I came to Cardiff Met to study my undergraduate degree in Sport and Exercise Science I was then able to start coaching a team within the academy which has worked really alongside studying and playing
What were your original thoughts when you moved into coaching?
Slight nervousness but mainly excitement
What did you find most interesting to learn as a coach?
I have found developing my in-game coaching and tactical awareness most interesting. There is always something new to learn. There are always areas to improve on and different ways to outwit opponents
What was the most rewarding part of your coaching journey so far?
The most rewarding part of my journey so far has been seeing the smiles on the athletes faces that I coach when they are successful
Which parts of coaching do you like the most?
I enjoy within-session coaching and in particular drills that require team work and problem based learning
Where are you now? How are you using your coaching skills?
I’m in my final year of my undergrad at Cardiff Met and alongside coaching I also occupy a media role within the club which has been great and helped me acquire a wide range of skills. I’ve used the interpersonal skills that I have developed whilst coaching in particular to form relationships with the wider community. I have also been able to use my experience working with children and other coaches within the academy to pursue a career in PE teaching
What is your coaching niche and why did you choose it?
My ability to motivate others. With the right motivation, anything is possible
What is your coaching vision for the next two years?
I’d like to start my own team at home in Reading, for young children that do not have access to Basketball
What is your favourite coaching question from athletes?
When am I going back on? (after a substitution)
What advice do you have for those coaches currently in training?
Dive right in! don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Coaching sessions that don’t always go to plan or don’t run as smoothly as you’d like are good. It means you a challenging yourself as a coach but also the team
What legacy would you like to leave behind you?
I’m not important enough to leave a legacy, but if I can play a role in ensuring as many young people participate in sport and basketball and find enjoyment out of it then I’m happy
You can follow Coach Tedridge's progress this weekend as Cardiff Met Archers takeover the NBL Instagram stories!
