Qingdao West Coast soccer team head coach Shao Jiayi recently shared his insights on coaching as well as the team's recent performance and future outlook in a media interview.
In response to the current rapid development in the field of soccer, Shao emphasized the importance for young coaches to maintain a desire for knowledge. He said: "For young coaches of our generation, first of all, we have to have this desire to learn. Because it's true that soccer is developing rapidly now, both technical and tactical concepts and training methods are constantly being updated, and I hope to learn more and see more." This positive attitude towards learning not only reflects Shao's pursuit of personal professional development, but also his tireless efforts towards the team's progress.
In the last round of the Chinese Super League, Qingdao West Coast staged a "let two chase three" reversal, Shao Jiayi could not hide his excitement. He said: "3 points for us is very important, and this is (relegation) 6 points battle. For us, it's another step towards our goal." The victory not only brought valuable points for the team, but more importantly boosted the team's morale and confidence. Shao also came to the realization that despite the victory, the team has not yet reached its ultimate goal and still needs to continue to work hard to prepare for the upcoming matches.
Talking about his coaching experience, Shao Jiayi said, "Although it is my first time to coach the first team of a professional league team, but there is a very long time before an accumulation. Before in the national team, from 2019 until 2024, more than five years I have been in the first line to experience this environment, and I know the players better." This rich experience has laid a solid foundation for his coaching work. However, he also admits that the pressure of being a first-team head coach is very different from his previous roles as an assistant coach or team leader: "The pressure is completely different from that of a head coach. But I believe I will gradually adapt to the role through continuous learning and experience."
Finally, Shao again emphasized the importance of learning for young coaches, "Every game is a good opportunity for me to learn and accumulate. I will seriously summarize the lessons learned from each game and continuously improve my coaching level." This humble and studious attitude will undoubtedly give a strong impetus to the future development of Qingdao West Coast soccer team.
