When NYL Head Coach John Aloisi began contemplating the next stage in his professional life, his future path became immediately apparent.
When NYL Head Coach John Aloisi began contemplating the next stage in his professional life, his future path became immediately apparent.
While Aloisi was unveiled as one of Melbourne Heart FC-s star on-field signings ahead of the Club-s debut season, the Socceroo legend approached the campaign with an eye already on the future, earmarked to assume the role of mentor to the Red and White-s inaugural youth side.
As one of Australia-s most successful football exports, Aloisi has played under some of the biggest names in the game including Javier Aguirre, Terry Venables, Gordon Strachan and the inimitable Guus Hiddink.
And Aloisi will look to draw on this experience, in addition to his time with Heart Head Coach John van ‘t Schip as he approaches his debut season in the dugout.
“There’s a lot more preparation that goes into the coaching. It’s not only what happens on the pitch, it’s also about the boys off the pitch, about learning personalities,” Aloisi said.
“You know it as a player, but you don’t have to really worry about it because you are worrying about yourself and getting yourself right.
“Now you have to worry about 20-odd players and making sure that they are all good and some of them might need a pat on the back and some might need a kick. That stuff there is different, and you have to learn from being on the job.”
Although he has made the transition with ease, Aloisi admits his journey remains one of constant learning, adapting to his new environment and role.
“It’s been good, I’ve really enjoyed it. When you are team-mates one year and all of the sudden you are yelling at them, it wasn’t too easy at first, but we are all pulling in the same direction,” Aloisi said.
“Sometimes you may say something they don’t want to hear, but it’s good for them good for the club and good for the team. I’ve really enjoyed it and learning a lot from John van ‘t Schip, I’m looking forward to the season now.”
Melbourne Heart FC will play its first match against the Australian Institute of Sport on Sunday 25 September as part of the Club-s Family Day.
Entry is FREE!
