What they said: Neil Walton and Mark Hester
Bolton Lads and Girls Club Under 9s coach, Neil Walton admitted that the coaches found it tough to keep quiet on the touchline, but the positives were there for all to see.
“I struggled not encouraging them at first but it was brilliant to see the boys decide for themselves what they wanted to do.
“We train during the week but it was down to them to decide on the pitch, they were the ones talking to each other.
“The atmosphere felt a lot more positive. Shouts from the side can create a negative atmosphere and make the lads get on each others backs, but I didn’t see any of that which was great for them and it gave us great pleasure.”
“I struggled not encouraging them at first but it was brilliant to see the boys decide for themselves what they wanted to do.
“We train during the week but it was down to them to decide on the pitch, they were the ones talking to each other.
“The atmosphere felt a lot more positive. Shouts from the side can create a negative atmosphere and make the lads get on each others backs, but I didn’t see any of that which was great for them and it gave us great pleasure.”
Westhoughton Rangers Under 10 boss Mark Hester agreed with Walton and feels that the initiative could benefit youngsters in the long-term.
“Maybe I’m biased because we won 4-0 that weekend, but I felt like it was really good for the lads.
“They have been brilliant all season but they definitely had a spring in their step. It was strange for us to be stood there not being allowed to talk to the boys, but they had a really good focus.
“I was a bit sceptical at first but after seeing it in action I can definitely see it working for the everyone across the country.
"Anything that helps the young ones progress as sportsmen and women should be considered."
“Maybe I’m biased because we won 4-0 that weekend, but I felt like it was really good for the lads.
“They have been brilliant all season but they definitely had a spring in their step. It was strange for us to be stood there not being allowed to talk to the boys, but they had a really good focus.
“I was a bit sceptical at first but after seeing it in action I can definitely see it working for the everyone across the country.
"Anything that helps the young ones progress as sportsmen and women should be considered."