The Confidence Coach's Sports Psychology Articles
On The Couch With Dr. Martin - 442's Sports Psychology Expert
The Confidence Coach's monthly Sports Psychology Article in 442 magazine. This article was inspired by the managerial style of Barnet's Paul Fairclough.
Paul Fairclough
It’s the October Manager of The Month award and Paul Ince of the MK Dons scoops the Division Two title. He is just ahead of Barnet’s Paul Fairclough. For Fairclough, this would have been his second award in succession, after landing the September accolade. At last, professional recognition is coming the way of the man, who for many years, was judged to be the best manager in non-league football. He is a well educated man, both academically and from a football perspective, and has applied his intellect and knowledge productively.
Fairclough’s success stems partly from that fact that he has been applying his considerable acumen and high quality experience to Barnet’s disciplinary problems. A poor record last season, which landed them an FA fine, showed no sign of improvement when Barnet had three players sent off in the opening weeks of the new season.
But, rather than indulge in the traditional blame game, Fairclough put the responsibility on his players to provide the answer to their disciplinary problems.
"I am the leader and I guide them along the path but it's their team and they have to be accountable. If they have ideas that enhance the team we respect that''. From now on, only an elected Barnet player will speak to the referee when a decision needs to be disputed.
This admirable approach has led to a measurable improvement in team discipline but, significantly, in form. A play-off position suggests that Barnet are no longer distracted and are able to retain a clear focus and consistent levels of concentration.
Paul Fairclough's leadership style is far from laissez faire, although he has allowed his players free reign. 'It's their team'...this works as a concept on a number of levels. Firstly, it allows the team to take on increased responsibility for their actions and creates leaders. Players are able to make decisions in the midst of a game; they are able to think on their feet. They become people you can rely on; trusted colleagues Thus, more players care about the outcomes. Stronger individuals become a stronger team.
This is an interesting methodology and contrasts starkly with those managers who prefer an interventionist approach; most often made manifest by their constant directives from the ‘technical area‘. Such attitudes might suggest that the manager either does not trust himself or is constantly in fear of being undermined from all sides.
On the other hand, the ‘It’s Their Team’ concept frees Paul Fairclough up, allowing him to be more instinctive in his decision making. He can respond to the needs of the moment, rather than refer to a some pre-ordained script. He can afford to be less involved. He becomes interactive rather than reactive.
It requires a strong and confident manager to take this approach to team leadership. Self awareness is powerful ingredient for an effective leader. But some might wonder if Paul Fairclough's approach opens up the question of whose team is it? Many managers fall into the trap of thinking it is THEIR team, and this can be the source of destructive power struggles within a club. This leads to a command and control style of leadership, with it's attendant anxieties and stress. And, quite regularly, the demise of the coach.
Managers should be aware that they are more or less temporary custodians of the public face of the club and act accordingly. Too many are not fully able to trust their players and live in fear of losing their job. Inevitably, this leads to teams which lack spontaneity and players who look to the manager for solutions to problems they should be able to solve themselves. And too many managers are happy to oblige because they can maintain the circle of control.
Clearly, Paul Fairclough’s approach to leadership is not for everyone. But the chances are that his bravery and insight will have its rewards. For, in choosing to respect referee and officials, his players are also choosing to respect the game. And those who respect the game will reap the rewards from the game itself.
Martin Perry - Confidence Coaching & Sports Psychology: 0044(0) 77897 56425