Managers, Head Coaches, Specialists & Selectors - What's the Story?

About this episode

This episode features a discussion on the evolving roles in coaching and management within modern sports, led by Ciaran Deely and guest Ross Bennett.

Managers, Head Coaches, Specialists, & Selectors – What’s the Story? Hosted by: Ciaran Deely (DSS Coaching) Guest: Ross Bennett (Head of Integrated Performance, QPR FC) In this thought-provoking episode of The Locker Room Podcast, Ciaran is joined by Ross Bennett, Head of Integrated Performance at QPR FC, to unpack the ever-evolving world of coaching and management structures in modern sport. Drawing on his experience across professional football and multi-disciplinary performance environments, Ross brings clarity to the often-muddled landscape of roles—whether you're dealing with managers, selectors, head coaches, or performance specialists. This episode explores: • The current coaching and support structure in professional football —and how it compares to setups in Gaelic Games. • The evolution of terminology: from “selectors” to “specialists”—what's in a name, and does it matter? • Building effective backroom teams—common mistakes and lessons from professional setups. • Advice for GAA clubs: how to use a Head of Methodology/Coaching; having a sounding board; getting the best out of your staff; and how to pick a starting team! • Striking the right balance between challenge…

People in this episode

Host: Ciaran Deely

Guest: Ross Bennett

Topics covered

• coaching structures
• management in sports
• performance specialists
• backroom teams
• GAA clubs
• coaching dynamics

Keywords

• coaching
• management
• performance
• selectors
• specialists
• GAA
• football

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: QPR FC

More episodes of The Locker Room Podcast - from DSS Coaching

• 'Talent ID in the Youth Development Phase (YDP)' - with Ciaran Deely & Ross Bennett · May 25, 2026 · 45 min
• 'Planning the Pre-Season Training Programme' - with Ross Bennett · April 16, 2026 · 15 min
• 'Video Analysis for Coaches – From Match Prep to Player Development' - with Ciaran Deely & Ross Bennett · March 25, 2026 · 41 min
• 'How to be a great Assistant Coach!' - with Ciaran Deely & Ross Bennett · March 12, 2026 · 43 min
• What should a new Manager & Head Coach focus on? - with Ross Bennett MSc · February 26, 2026 · 11 min
• Coaching at Foundation & Youth Development Phases · December 10, 2025 · 42 min