In the run-up to the start of the Allied Counties Youth Football League, Football in Berkshire is sitting down with as many of the leagues managers as possible in order to get their view on the upcoming season.
This week I spoke with Max Scott, the head coach for Eversley & California U18’s about his current role, the preparations for the season and his thoughts looking into the future.
Max, firstly thank you for your time speaking with me today. Please introduce yourself and your club to our readers.
My name is Max Scott, I am 19 years old, from Reading and I’m the current manager of Eversley & California U18’s.
How are your pre-season preparations going?
After lots of preparation, we begin our pre-season training on Wednesday 29th June. Prior to this point, we held three trial sessions to gather a squad of exciting talent for the forthcoming season.
We have also lined up some pre-season fixtures throughout July and August but are still looking for potential opponents. In addition to the above, we have recruited a new coach to work alongside me (Max Scott) and Ryan Robinson.
Sounds like you’ve had a busy few months! What goals are you setting the lads this season?
The goal for the lads this season is simple, to learn. We want them to soak up as much knowledge as they can, to grow as footballers but even more importantly, as a person. This debut season we are all learning, myself and my coaches included.
That’s a great attitude to have. Do you believe you can win the league this season?
Yes! We are in it to win it. If we don’t, we don’t but as long as we develop as both players and people.
What players should we look out for this season?
I’m not going to say one name, I don’t think that’s fair. Instead, I would encourage Football in Berkshire readers to come and watch our games and see for themselves the talent we have on offer.
We will definitely be making an appearance at Fox Lane this season. What opposition are you most looking forward to visiting this season?
Nobody in particular really. I have no good or bad ties with any of the clubs in the division. If I had to pick one then I’d say Binfield FC.
What do you see as your biggest challenge this season?
It’s hard to say as many things will inevitably come up during the season. Our first big challenge is getting the players used to setting high standards and how we want to coach them.
Who has been your inspiration to get into Football management?
There has never been one person that stood out to me as my inspiration. If I was to name a few managers right now that I’m a huge fan of then I would say Pep, of course, Graham Potter and Rob Edwards.
So you’re a master tactician?
I have always been interested in the tactical side of the game and have also taken an interest in psychology. So, when it occurred to me that actually, I’m pretty bad at playing football, I decided to go ALL IN on coaching.
What are your personal ambitions in Football?
I have big hopes and dreams just like the next person. For now, the aim is to: Watch and speak to as many coaches as I can. Study and progress through my coaching badges and most importantly, get hours and hours of practice in. If I continue to do all of that, then I will achieve my goals.
Finally, how can our readers follow you and your club’s progress this season?
The best thing you can do is come and be present at games. Details of which will be on social media. Follow the club on Twitter @EversleyCaliFC and follow me @maxscott01. I am extremely excited and I know I will be tweeting about the team a lot this season.
We would like to thank Max for his time in speaking with Football in Berkshire and wish himself, his coaching team and players all the best for the 2022/23 season and beyond.
Confirmed Pre-Season fixtures for Eversley & California FC U18’s are as follows;
- 13/07/2022 – vs Camberley Town KO 19:15
- 27/07/2022 – vs Badshot Lea KO 19:15
- 08/08/2022 – vs Ascot United KO 19:30
All the above matches will be played at the home of Eversley & California.
Football in Berkshire will be speaking with many more Allied Counties managers prior to the season so keep your eyes peeled for more in-depth interviews.
