When Cristiano Ronaldo’s Godfather Fernao Sousa was asked why his Godson became a professional footballer he replied "All he wanted to do as a boy was play football. He loved the game so much he’d miss meals or escape out of his bedroom window with a ball when he was supposed to be doing his homework!”
Now, of course, we can’t condone his bedroom window jumping or skipping meals as gaining an education and nutrition are both very important, but when you want something hard enough you will find a way of working hard enough to achieve your goal.

Ronaldo is one of WMF’s favourites as he is a driven, passionate and a continually developing player and these are some of the characteristics we look for in our Coaching Team. We asked our locally raised Coach Hariss a few questions about all things football, his life and the journey so far to achieve his own goals.

Question: What got you into football coaching?

Coach Hariss: When I was young the coaches that trained me weren’t really into it, I decided I wanted to make a change and become all the things they weren’t when I coached. Every day I coach I learn new things from our players regardless of their age, every day is a school day and an opportunity for me to develop as a coach. Passion and development are two things that I strive to achieve on a daily basis.

Question: What coach inspires you?

CH: Zidane is just such an accomplished football figure both as a coach and as a player. Already in a short coaching career, he has managed to bring out the best in extremely talented players and won 3 back to back Champions League titles, a feat that will most likely not happen again.

Question: Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

CH: As I am still a young coach, I believe I still have a lot to give as a player too. I would like to see myself progressing into the professional game be it in England or abroad and whilst playing to still continue my coaching journey and carry on gaining my badges. I hope that my experiences as a player can help me to develop as a coach and create a positive effect on younger footballers.

Having grown up in the local community it’s great to see Coach Hariss developing young local players and creating a positive change in our area. Coach Hariss is at our weekly training session in Finchley on a Wednesday which you can try for free by booking here.