Imagine this: your team starts a session with a full game, then breaks down specific elements, and finally puts it all together again in a match scenario. This approach isn't just a random strategy; it's the "Whole, Part, Whole" coaching method, a technique that can revolutionize your training sessions. Understanding and implementing this method is crucial for any coach aiming to enhance player development and team cohesion.
What is Whole, Part, Whole?
The Whole, Part, Whole (WPW) method is a structured coaching approach that begins with a complete game or activity, breaks down the session into smaller, more focused drills, and then returns to the full game to apply the learned skills in context. This technique leverages the natural learning process, ensuring players understand the bigger picture before honing in on specific skills, and then applying those skills back into the overall game.
The Science Behind WPW
Research supports the effectiveness of the WPW method. According to the FA, the method aligns with the cognitive approach to learning, which suggests that understanding the whole task can help players better grasp the individual parts that might make up a phase of play or element of the game. This holistic approach is backed by studies showing that contextual practice improves retention and transfer of skills (FA Youth Award).
Case Study: Manchester City's Pre-Season Training
Manchester City's use of WPW during their pre-season training exemplifies its effectiveness. Under Pep Guardiola, the team often starts sessions with small-sided games to engage players immediately. They then break down the play to work on specific tactical elements like pressing or ball control before returning to a full-sided game to implement these tactics. This structured yet flexible approach helps players understand their roles and responsibilities within the team context, improving overall performance.
Implementing WPW: A Practical Guide
It's all well and good knowing what it means and why we use it but for grassroots coaches, the important question is... how do we put it into practice?
Step 1: Start with the Whole
Begin your session with a full game or activity. This helps players warm up, get engaged, and understand the context of what they will be working on. This could be a 4v4, 5v5 or similar suitable match based activity.
Tips:
Use small-sided games to increase engagement. Keeping them small ensure players get more ball time and are more likely to identify the 'part' when moving on.
Focus on a specific objective (e.g., maintaining possession).
Step 2: Break Down into Parts
After the initial game, break down the session into smaller drills focusing on specific skills or tactics. This could include drills on passing, shooting, defensive positioning, etc.
Tips:
Keep drills short and focused to maintain player interest. Try not to go off on a tangent, if you are working on defensive jockeying, stick to that, don't start coaching the attacker on how they could beat the jockeying player.
Provide clear instructions and demonstrations.
Step 3: Return to the Whole
Finish the session with another full game or activity, allowing players to apply what they've learned in a realistic context.
Tips:
Encourage players to implement the skills or tactics practiced. This could even be the foundation for points/scoring i.e. if you've been working on the use of width, teams score 1 point for a goal from normal play but 2 points if the assist come from a wide area.
Provide feedback during the game to reinforce learning.
Benefits of WPW
Enhanced Understanding: Players see the relevance of specific skills within the game context.
Better Engagement: Starting and ending with a game keeps players motivated and interested. Particularly at the younger ages, we've all heard the dreaded question, "coach, when are we playing a match?"
Improved Skill Retention: Practicing skills in context helps with long-term retention and application. Similar to theory versus practical learning, if I showed a player a skill movement described with words they might struggle to implement it practically. Show them on a pitch in a game situation and all of a sudden it makes sense and the pieces fall in to place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long should each phase of WPW last? A: It depends on the session's goals, but typically, the whole phases are shorter at the beginning and longer at the end, with the part phase being the most intensive.
Q: Can WPW be used with all age groups? A: Yes, but the complexity of drills should be adjusted based on the players' age and skill level. For example a WPW might include a complex passage of play for counter attacking at U17 to U19, whereas for U7-U9 it might look a bit more like lifting their head whilst dribbling or keeping the ball controlled closer to their body.
Q: How often should I use WPW in training? A: It can be used regularly, but variety is also important. Mix WPW with other methods to keep training fresh. Repetition helps with retention but can also introduce boredom, a good balance will keep players interested, learning and engaged.
Summary
The Whole, Part, Whole method is a powerful tool for football coaches, offering a structured yet flexible approach to training. By starting with a full game, breaking down specific elements, and then returning to the game, coaches can enhance player understanding, engagement, and skill retention. This method not only improves on-field performance but also helps players develop a deeper understanding of the game. Incorporate WPW into your training sessions to see significant improvements in your team's performance and cohesion.
Thanks for reading, join The Football Hub now to find drills and session plans that you can build into your own whole, part, whole sessions. We've got plans to suit any level:
Individual Plan - £5 per month - 30 day free trial
Full access to our Coaching Library
Coaching Webinars
Messaging advice/session reviews
Access to our coaching courses
Downloadable Content and tactical guides
So much more
Grassroots Club Plan - £18.99 per month
Pro Club Plan - £29.99 per month
Or why not try one of our annual plans for all of the above at discounted rates... we'll even throw in a free copy of our 6 Week Pre-Season Programme:
Comments