Case Study: Transformation of Cheltenham Football Club Through Holistic Training and Technology
Background:
Cheltenham Football Club, a proud member of the English Football League, faced significant challenges before the summer of 2020. The club was grappling with a series of defeats and the looming threat of relegation from League Two. This case study outlines the transformative journey undertaken by the club, catalysed by a strategic partnership focusing on holistic training, the integration of advanced early Loopin technology, and the installation of a 'Commando Mindset' in collaboration with former Royal Marines.
Challenges:
The club's challenges were multifaceted, including poor game outcomes, low team morale, and disjointed club values. The team's spirit was dwindling, mirrored by their league standings and performance on the field. The need for a radical change was evident to overturn the fortunes of the club and set a new direction.
Intervention Strategy:
The turnaround strategy was holistic, targeting not just the physical but also the psychological and emotional well-being of the players.
Player Wellbeing Through Technology:
The club introduced Loopin, a state-of-the-art technology platform, that enables players to record and monitor their emotional well-being. This intervention allowed for personalised support for players, addressing their ups and downs, and fostering an environment of understanding and care within the team.
Leadership Support:
Recognising the importance of strong leadership, the program provided tailored support for leaders, captains, and staff. This initiative aimed to nurture holistic growth and instil a sense of responsibility and motivation among the team leaders. This was provided by intervention workshops, used at the entire club level, through to leadership syndicates. We also implemented simple strategies in effective communication through feedback, to enable players at all levels to share both positive and negative feedback across the entire group, for a high-performance increase.
Club Values and Culture:
A concerted effort was made to reinforce club values and culture. The motto "Leave your ego at the door" was emblematically etched above the training ground entrance, symbolising the club's commitment to unity, humility, and collective growth. All players and staff ask to respect such a motto, and once they pass through the club entrance, that they act as a body of one with shared values.
Commando Mindset Training:
In an innovative move, the club collaborated with our more traditional former Royal Marines routes, to instil a 'Commando Mindset' among the players. This training was instrumental in fostering resilience, teamwork, and a no-fear approach to challenges, both on and off the field. Though not always leveraged amongst our work, in the sporting world, such physical and adverse training is something players and staff respond to well, and supports their unity via shared hardship.
Data Analysis:
The impact of these interventions was profound and quantifiable. Analysis of game data, league positions, and other performance metrics indicated a significant turnaround. The club saw a marked improvement in wins, draws, and a reduction in losses. Notably, the narrow loss against a formidable opponent like Manchester City in the FA Cup showcased the team's newfound tenacity and spirit.
Results and Impact:
The results were remarkable. From the brink of relegation in 2019, Cheltenham Football Club made an astounding leap to the playoffs in League One by 2022. The club's journey was not just about improved standings but also about the cultivation of a resilient, supportive, and united team culture. The 'Commando Mindset' and the focus on holistic well-being were pivotal in scripting this turnaround story.
Before the Intervention (Before August 2019)
Looking at the results leading up to August 2019, Cheltenham's performance was as follows (data taken from the end of the previous season up to August 2019):
2018/19 Season (selected matches from the end):
Wins: 3
Draws: 5
Losses: 7
After the Intervention (After August 2019)
Now, analysing the results after the intervention started (from August 2019 onwards):
2019/20 Season (from August 2019 to the end of the season):
Wins: 17
Draws: 9
Losses: 9
2020/21 Season (selected matches):
This season saw Cheltenham's promotion to League One, indicating a significant improvement in their performance.
2021/22 Season (selected matches):
The club maintained its position in League One, showcasing its ability to compete at a higher level.
Improvement in Win Rate:
Before the intervention: 20%
After the intervention (2019/20 Season): 48.6%
Conclusion:
The transformation of Cheltenham Football Club is a testament to the power of holistic development, innovative technology, and mental resilience training. The case of Cheltenham is a beacon for clubs and businesses facing similar challenges, proving that with the right approach, support, and mindset, turning the tide is not just a possibility but a reality. The club's journey continues, with a renewed spirit, a stronger bond, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, both on and off the field.
My belief as the CEO of Loopin, is that such projects can truly transform a team or organisation from many sectors, not just in Sport. The concept of supporting a team's growth in well-being, resilience, high performance and leadership, is instigated by holistic training and dovetailed with technology to empower the end user in their growth, but also provide the data to further inform the training provided.
One size fits all approaches simply don’t work in this modern working environment, and using holistic training, technology and data-backed insights, is what is required to take teams and companies to the next level.
Find out more:
Want to see how similar approaches could work within your team, in boosting high-performance, feel free to drop into my diary and book a call: https://calendly.com/ben-williams-loopin/30min
