Alex Arnold hails from Liverpool in England and has lived in Beijing for two years. Arnold works for China ClubFootball as a football (soccer) coach.
How long have you been coaching for?
12 years coaching. I have been involved in football from the age of 5, playing or coaching.
What made you become interested in coaching?
I was unable to continue playing the game, so went to University and gained qualifications and experience in coaching the game. I spent a year coaching in the United States and have since been lucky enough to coach football all over the world. Staying involved in football was my priority and coaching is a wonderful way to do that. I love the buzz of passing on my passion and knowledge of the game to young children.
What coaching qualifications do you have?
Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) B license, Football Association (FA) Level 2, FA Youth Modules, and a Physical Education Degree.
What was your favorite sport to play when you were a student?
Surprisingly enough…football!
How would you describe your coaching style?
Player centered and inclusive; involve the children in the decision making processes so that they understand why they are doing things, not just how and what to do. First and foremost, football should be fun, so I really try to make sure that is reflected in my delivery and approach to the players.
What do you find most rewarding about coaching?
It is great to see young children improving their technical foundation in football. But what is all the more exciting is seeing the social and psychological impact that can come as a result of playing the game. Helping the children gain in confidence, become more socially adaptable, and learn invaluable transferable skills such as teamwork and cooperation is very rewarding.
And most challenging…?
Dealing with the Beijing weather; adapting summer sessions for the heat and winter sessions for the cold is sometimes a challenge, but one that we feel we have now got to grips with.
To contact Arnold, e-mail alex@wanguoqunxing.com or call 138 1053 0141.
beijingkids Shunyi Correspondent Sally Wilson moved to Beijing in 2010 from the UK with her husband and son. Her daughter was born here in 2011 and both her kids keep her happily busy. In her spare time, Sally loves to stroll through Beijing’s hutongs and parks. She is a (most of the time) keen runner and loves reading: books, magazines, news, and celeb websites – anything really. Sally is also a bit of a foodie and loves trying out new restaurants.
Photos: Courtesy of Alex Arnold
