Leadership in any sport is essential in the structure of a team. That is whether it be grass roots or professional, and soccer is one of the oldest sports. The first game was played in England on a professional level. This occurred in London on December 19th, 1863, between Barnes FC and Richmond FC.
Since then the game has evolved. Some of the factors that have changed are the rules of the game, how soccer is promoted, the size and shape of the ball, stadiums, how world wide the game has become, and even technology. Today, we have goal line technology that was introduced in 2014. It’s how leadership has changed that caused me to want to focus on one of the greatest managers of all time in soccer.
Alex Ferguson was not a great player, but he found his place in the history book as one of the greatest managers of all time. In the 1980’s, Alex managed Scottish clubs in East Sterling and Aberdeen. This is where he brought discipline to the clubs, and he earned seven trophies. It was surprising in 1986, he joined Manchester United, and he won united a staggering 25 titles in a space of only 27 years when he retired in 2013. Was it a good start that his parents gave him in life that led to his success? No, he already had a degree in business studies, and anyone knows who follows the game, it can be very unpredictable.
Alex knew how to create a team . Hard work will always overcome natural talent when natural talent does not work hard enough. It is all about his leadership skills. Managers have developed new techniques since the beginning of the invention of soccer that have moved the game on. Managers have a lot more pressure today, unlike in the old days where a manager could get away with a few losses, or getting rid of players.
Today its all over social media, or plastered on the front page of a newspaper. During Alex’s generation, he had to deal with players who had drinking problems, violence issues, and rifts with players such as David Beckham. Greg Gordon a journalist who knew Alex said, ” his dedication and loyalty to people around him is incredible. This includes is generosity of both time and spirit that would put most people to shame working in any industry. “
Some of Alex’s sayings shows his mentality and leadership skills. Alex says,” one can play soccer, but practice is what makes you a soccer player.” How did he deal with the rude player, Van Nistelrooy? Most managers would have sacked the player. but he nurtured and protected him . How did he deal with David Beckham? He sold him to protect the image of the club. A smart leader, and a legend. He was not only a manager to the players , but a father and a role model.
For the next part of my project, I will be looking at how social media has had an effect on the game, and has it had a negative or positive impact on the game.
English 361-Risa Edelstein 
Risa,
It is simply amazing how technology has changed every sport! You mentioned the goal-line technology and that was awesome. Even in the game of tennis, how it tracks exactly where the ball landed, the speed, and direction. On the flip-side, it is sometimes interesting with all the technology we have, how there can be such poor video quality or angled shots for replay challenges!
Shelly
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You make some good points on the flip side, but I think it is good for the sport. Do you know that there are many countries in the past that were cheated out of winning major tournaments through not having a replay? I see that kind of technology has been a huge asset for sports.
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