First Impressions- DFB International Coaching Course B Level

By Letecia Bautista
Head Coach - Philippine National U16 Women's Football Team

My trip to Germany to attend the Deutscher Fussball-Bund was really one great opportunity that I will always be thankful and happy to reminisce even in my old days.
Never did I imagine that I would be a part of this once in a lifetime experience.  It was AWESOME opportunity for me to learn new insights with the end in view that this will certainly improve my coaching skills, both theoretically and practically.  The opportunity given me was really great!
The course surely did test my knowledge on the technical and tactical aspects of the game during coaching practice.  It really brought me out of my comfort zone, stretching and/or expanding my thoughts and analytical thinking in coaching and management skills.
The three (3) weeks stay was sufficient enough, but it would be nice if they will offer a course, e.g., coaches’ attachment in clubs at Germany for six (6) months, to really understand what football is in Germany. The portion where they have invited guests and lecturers was really a good thing, though it was short.
Personally, the topic that interests me most is on the match analysis, since Germans are known for their tactical intelligence. We were given the chance to watch three (3) Bundesliga match; however, this topic was not given much emphasis. I would to say, though, that the experience of watching the teams play was really outstanding!
The course is meant to guide and teach us coaches to become 21^st century Football coach.  Likewise, the instructors were also happy to get inputs from us, participants that make the seminar more encouraging.  They were happy to learn from other countries’ experiences, as they also have their different culture. 
At the end of the course, what the DFB instructor really wants to convey to us is to understand that Football is SIMPLE and should be FUN!