The special guest
The next each student manager sat at their desk, finalizing their notes, and making sure their fitness plans were polished and ready to present.
Kay had spent a long night poring over research, trying to create a plan that balanced the game's physical demands with the unique needs of every position.
His head was buzzing with ideas, but he knew he had to keep it simple and focused.
"Alright," Coach Sheppard began, "Today we'll be looking at the fitness plans you've all created. You'll need to know how to keep your players in top physical condition while also avoiding burnout and injuries. Your plans should reflect that balance."
"I'll be giving feedback after each presentation, so don't worry if your plan isn't perfect. This is a learning process."
The presentations began, and one by one, the student managers stood at the front of the room to present their fitness plans.
Leo was the first to go, outlining a plan that emphasized endurance training.
He explained that his team had struggled with stamina during the last practical month, so he focused on improving their ability to keep up the intensity for a full 90 minutes.
Coach Sheppard nodded thoughtfully, giving Leo some pointers on how to better incorporate strength training alongside endurance work.
Then it was Gil's turn. His plan was sharp and well-organized, with an emphasis on recovery and injury prevention.
Gil spoke with confidence, and it was clear that his time in the first place had given him a boost in self-assurance.
He even included some data he had gathered from the physical performances of his players during his practical month.
Coach Sheppard gave him high praise, especially for the way Gil had balanced high-intensity training with recovery sessions.
Busquets followed, presenting a fitness plan that focused on flexibility and agility, key components for the style of play his team favored.
His detailed understanding of how to make his players more mobile on the field impressed both the class and Coach Sheppard, who gave him a few tips on integrating more individualized plans for players with different physical conditions.
Finally, it was Kay's turn. He took a deep breath before stepping up to the front.
His plan focused on the fundamentals: strength, speed, and endurance, but with a special focus on progressive overload, a method where training intensity increases gradually to ensure the players' development without risking injuries.
Kay began by explaining the challenges he had faced with Starlight FC's fitness levels, particularly the disparities between players who were physically stronger and those who lagged behind; and that was clear in his match against Watford FC.
His plan included a variety of drills aimed at increasing muscle strength and stamina but also emphasized rest and recovery, understanding that overworking young players could lead to burnout or injury.
"I've also included a focus on nutrition," Kay added, glancing at his notes.
"Many of the players in youth teams aren't fully aware of how much diet affects their performance. So, I think it's important to give them some basic education on how to fuel their bodies properly."
When he finished, there was a brief silence as Coach Sheppard considered his plan. "Well done, Kay," Sheppard finally said, nodding in approval.
"I can see you've put a lot of thought into balancing the physical and mental demands on your players. Your focus on progressive overload is smart; it's a method that allows players to push their limits without going too far. And your mention of nutrition is a nice touch. Managers often overlook the impact of diet on performance, so I'm glad you included it."
After all the presentations were finished, Coach Sheppard addressed the group as a whole.
"I'm impressed with the work you've all put into these fitness plans. It's clear that you're thinking about your players holistically, not just focusing on pushing them physically but also considering their health and long-term development. That's exactly what we're looking for in future managers."
***
After two weeks...
The past two weeks had been intense, filled with drills, fitness plans, and learning how to manage the physical aspect of a football team.
The knowledge they had gained was invaluable, and each student could feel the difference in their understanding.
The three weeks specified for the physical aspects chapter were near to an end.
Coach Sheppard began the session by concluding the achievements achieved by him and the student managers in this short period.
"Well, this is it. You've all come a long way in just two weeks. I have to say, I'm proud of the progress you've made. You've taken on board everything I've taught you, and I can see how much you've improved in your thinking about physical training for football. Remember, it's not just about pushing players to their limits; it's about managing their growth, recovery, and long-term performance. Keep that in mind as you continue your careers."
Then, Hamilton stepped forward with a smile, holding a small folder in his hand.
"Before we end today's session, I have a little surprise for you all," he said, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
"As you know, every chapter ends with a special guest giving a lecture. And this time, it's no different."
Kay immediately began thinking. The last two guest speakers had been impressive figures in the football world, and he knew this one would be no exception.
His mind raced, trying to figure out who it could be. Would it be a legendary player? A world-renowned coach? Or maybe someone who had made their mark as a top manager in European football?
Hamilton continued, teasing the class with a slow build-up. "I know you've been waiting to find out who this guest is, and I can promise you, they're someone who has had a huge impact on the world of football. This guest is someone who understands the importance of physical training and how it affects a team's overall success."
Kay could feel the excitement building in the room. His mind raced through possible names: Conte, Flick, or maybe even a former world-class fitness coach who had worked with some of the top clubs in the world.
But there were so many names to choose from, that it was impossible to land on one.
Hamilton finally smiled wider and said, "Well, I won't keep you in suspense any longer. Tomorrow, we will have the honor of hearing from none other than... Antonio Pintus!"
The room erupted in murmurs of surprise. Antonio Pintus, the legendary fitness coach who had worked with some of the best clubs in the world; Real Madrid, Juventus, and Chelsea.
He was known for his strict and revolutionary fitness regimes that had transformed many top players into peak athletes.
His methods were intense but incredibly effective, and he had been a key figure in Real Madrid's dominance in the Champions League under Zidane.
Kay's eyes widened in amazement. He hadn't expected this at all. Pintus was a giant in the world of football fitness coaching. If anyone understood the importance of physical conditioning in a football team, it was him. His presence alone would elevate the final session of the chapter to something unforgettable.
Hamilton nodded at the class's reaction, clearly pleased. "I can see you all know who he is, Tomorrow, Pintus will be giving a special lecture about the role of fitness in modern football, and how physical preparation has evolved in the game over the years. He'll also be sharing insights into how he developed some of the best players in the world. This is a rare opportunity to learn from someone who's been at the top of his field for years, so make sure you're prepared."
As the class calmed down from the excitement of learning about Antonio Pintus, Hamilton raised his hand to get their attention once more.
"Before you all leave for the day, there's something important I need to add about Pintus' sessions," he said, his tone more serious now.
The student managers turned their focus back to him, eager to hear more.
See you in the next chapter...
- - - - Author's note - - - - -
Hey everyone!
Antonio Pintus is the guest in this chapter. What do you think about this choice? Do you have any suggestions for future guests? Let me know in the comments!