In a study of over 500 coaches, five distinct categories of coaching styles were identified. There is, however, no one perfect style that leads to success. Most coaches possess certain characteristics of each coaching type but should be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of the various coaching styles. If a coach is able to identify some of his shortcomings he is in a position to improve.

Authoritarian Coach

• Strong disciplinarian.
• Well organised.
• Good team spirit.
• Dissension when losing.
• May be feared or disliked.

Business-like Coach

• Intelligent logical approach.
• Well planned and organised.
• Up to date with new techniques.
• Expects 100% effort all the time.
• May set goals too high for some team members.

Nice Guy Coach  

• Well liked.
• Players sometimes take advantage of the coach's co-operative nature.
• Gets on well with the players of similar temperament.

Intense Coach  

• Emphasises winning.
• High anxiety often transmitted to players.

Easy-going Coach 

• Very casual.
• Gives impression of not taking the game seriously.
• May not be prepared to drive his team at training.
• Well liked but may seem to be inadequate in some situations.

Footballers can be subdivided into 4 main categories according to their size and age:

1. Pre Club: Up to 10 years
2. Junior Player: 10-12 years
3. Youth Player: 13-18 years
4. Senior Player

It is imperative that your coaching style and philosophy take into account the age and ability of your team.