Learn more about one of our new faces for 2022 – Men’s First Grade assistant coach Chris Adams!
Can you tell us about your coaching history? Which clubs have you previously been involved with?
I started coaching when I was 16 back in the UK with some non league football clubs in Heybridge Swifts and Maldon Saints FC. With Heybridge I worked with the U18 side competing in the East Anglian Alliance league and also in the FA Youth Cup preliminary rounds. Upon moving to Australia, I then worked for Cockburn City Soccer Club in Western Australia in the WA NPL. I was Technical Director and also had spells as the U18 and Women’s State Premier League coach. During my time at Cockburn I was also fortunate to spend a lot of time around the first team with former Perth Glory full back Scott Miller which was a real insight into working with a senior first grade team and being as professional as possible at all times.
What are you looking forward to this season coaching at Northern Tigers?
Working in the senior team I’m very much looking forward to working week to week to prepare the team to win at the weekend and achieve our goal of gaining promotion to NPL1. I worked with Adam on his B Licence and he is a great young coach plying his trade in the NPL and I am excited to be working alongside him as I think he has a big future as a coach here in Australia.
How would you describe your coaching philosophy?
Like most people I am a big fan of attacking football and looking to be on the front foot in matches which I know is a part of the Tigers Trademarks, for me a philosophy is more than just the X’s and O’s of the game and I would describe myself as an empathetic coach who looks to understand the players in the team and help them enjoy their football. The first grade lads will be coming from work, spending time away from their loved ones 3-4 times a week so It is important that you build a connection with them but also ensure that training is as professional as possible but ultimately enjoyable and something that they look forward to.
What attracted you to join Northern Tigers? What do you like about the club?
Being based on the North Shore I have always kept a close eye on the club, working now for the NSFA there is a strong connection there and for me it is a great chance to work with Hetty who I met on his B Licence course and also Jason as TD. I know the effort that has gone into the club and the real drive to get promoted and hopefully this is the year we can achieve that goal for the club and get into the top tier of football in NSW.
What goals do you have for the team this season?
Winning the league and gaining promotion to NPL1 and a nice little away trip in the FFA Cup round of 32!