Case Study: The Central Coast Mariners Holistic Championship Approach
The Central Coast Mariners A-League Club has achieved remarkable success in the A-LeagueMen despite operating with the lowest budget and youngest squad in the league. This case study explores the unique and holistic approach that has driven the Mariners to their championship run.
Nick Montgomery and Sérgio Raimundo have always emphasised a holistic approach to football, focusing on the game's technical, tactical, physical, and mental aspects. I have been with theMariners since 2019, playing a crucial role in this philosophy by addressing the mental side of the game. My work involved group sessions and individual meetings with players, helping them develop mental resilience through techniques like visualisation, goal setting, emotional intelligence, and self-talk.
The Mariners' success is also attributed to the strong culture fostered by Montgomery and Raimundo. The club's fundamental values are encapsulated in the acronym "F.A.M.I.L.Y.," which stands for Focus, Attitude, Inspire, Leadership, and Yourself. This culture emphasises the importance of focusing on controllable factors, maintaining a positive attitude, and inspiring others.
My contributions were particularly evident during critical moments of the season. For instance, before the Grand Final, I gave each player a hand-written letter reminding them that the outcome would not define them as individuals. This approach helped the players play more naturally and without fear of failure. I also emphasised to each player that they are more than elite athletes: partners, husbands, dads, sons, brothers, uncles, friends, etc.
The Mariners' holistic approach culminated in a stunning 6-1 victory over Melbourne City in the Grand Final. I enjoyed seeing this project come to fruition, and I credit Montgomery and Raimundo for their hard work and intelligent planning.
The Central Coast Mariners' success story is a testament to the power of a holistic approach in football. By addressing the game's mental aspects and fostering a strong, family-like culture, theMariners have set an example for other clubs to follow. Their journey highlights the importance of mental resilience, teamwork, and a well-rounded approach to player development.
Assistant Coach at Tottenham Hotspur Football Club
"I met Ezio at the end of my playing career in 2017, initially for a coffee to discuss sports performance and team performance. We instantly became very good friends, and I brought Ezio to work with me as an integral member of my staff at the CentralCoast Mariners Academy during my time as TD and head coach of the 20/23s.
Four years later, he played a pivotal role in helping me achieve A-LeagueChampionship success with the youngest squad in the competition's history. Most notably, the Mariners became number one in the AFC for academy-developed players playing in the first team, which is something special. Ezio played a big part in the mindset development of these young players by helping them set goals and grow as human beings.
Ezio is the ultimate professional, and his methods of improving team performance go far beyond anything I have experienced. His humility and ability to gain the trust of not only the players but also the staff are testaments to his personality.”
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