Episode 366 – Danny Pilgram | Commentary vs. Coaching, Self-Awareness & Using Coach Developers

The Coaches Network Podcast

🎙 Episode 366 – Danny Pilgram | Commentary vs. Coaching, Self-Awareness & Using Coach Developers

In this episode, Coach Yas is joined by Danny Pilgram (Birmingham City FC Academy Coach & Non-League First Team Coach) for a grounded, honest and insightful conversation about the journey of becoming a coach—and what it really means to coach, not just commentate.

Danny shares reflections from over a decade of experience across academy and senior football, breaking down the trap many new coaches fall into: mistaking talking for teaching. He explores the importance of clarity, intentionality, and the power of feedback in developing your practice.

💡 Key Talking Points

The difference between commentary and actual coaching—and why it matters.

How easy it is to lose focus mid-session, even with the best intentions.

Why having a "buddy coach" or trusted colleague can sharpen your practice.

Practical strategies to audit your own coaching language and interventions.

How to get the most out of working with a coach developer.

Why self-awareness and deliberate reflection must underpin your coaching identity.

🧠 “You can still develop yourself—even while delivering a session.” – Danny Pilgrim

📱 Whether you're new to coaching or mentoring others, this episode is packed with real-world insight and tips you can use straight away. From using your phone to record your own voice, to learning how to ask coach developers for specificfeedback—this one’s a practical deep-dive into becoming more self-aware, coach-aware, and player-focused.

👉 If this resonated, tag a coach you rate and start a conversation about commentary vs. coaching.

💬 Let us know your go-to tools for self-review—we’re all still learning.

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