If you want to learn how to play Aussie Rules, who is there better to learn from than Joel Selwood?
Selwood is the perfect combination of old school grunt and modern-day silk. He is tough and uncompromising, yet dynamic and skilful. At one end of the ground he will lay a goal saving tackle and at the other he will hit the full forward on the chest with a bullet-like pass.
Joel Selwood is many things; Geelong captain, midfield general, All-Australian, premiership player and now, he is a coach.
Through a new application, Footy Coach Plus, Selwood will pass on the knowledge he has acquired over his AFL journey; from the backyard games in Bendigo with his three brothers to the MCG on grand final day.
Through a series of 28 master class videos, Selwood breaks down 19 different skills into their essential elements for those at the beginner stage through to the elite level.
Participants have the ability to record themselves completing the various skills and improve their skills through comparison and analysis.
It is Selwood’s first foray into the world of coaching and a career as an AFL coach is something he will “definitely consider”.
Selwood says his coaches at AFL level have had a major influence in shaping his coaching philosophy and in the skills and drills showcased in the application.
“At this stage I’m still learning and observing, however I am of the understanding the importance to a good coach is having a clear game plan, respect from the playing group, strong support staff and to keep developing coaching style and techniques,” he said.
“Chris Scott has many great qualities as a coach. Some of his many qualities includes honesty, caring nature, organisational and communication skills”
“Brendan McCartney played a huge role in my development in my early years at Geelong. He was hard, tough and very fair all at the same time, which is pretty hard to do”
Selwood believes the benefits from using the application extends beyond learning how to kick and handball.
“I am passionate about kids living a healthy and physical lifestyle and this app enables them to mix technology and activity and have great fun at the same time”.
Footy Coach Plus has been developed for coaches, teachers, parents and players to assist in technique development.
It is available for download on iphone and ipad and can be purchased via the iTunes store for $2.99.