Coach shuffle in Circle League
Joshua Blum, a 26-year-old coach with a rich background in regional football and youth development, has been appointed as the new head coach of FV Neufra/Do. in Kreisliga A 2 Oberschwaben. This move symbolizes the team's commitment to giving young people a chance in leadership roles.
Blum's coaching journey began in youth teams, honing his skills in nurturing talent and emphasizing technical development. He later moved on to coach reserve teams and assist senior competitive squads, including FC Mengen. His coaching style focuses on possession-based football combined with a pragmatic tactical approach, making him an ideal fit for Kreisliga A 2 Oberschwaben.
Before his time with FV Neufra, Blum had a brief stint as a goalkeeper for Neufra, followed by a move to SG Scheer/Ennetach, where he played as a midfielder. His tenure with Scheer was cut short due to a severe shoulder injury, which forced him to give up the goalkeeper position.
Despite the setback, Blum has remained dedicated to football and has now returned to FV Neufra/Do., eager to rejuvenate the team and strengthen its competitive edge. Injuries have been a significant challenge for FV Neufra/Do. in recent seasons, with key midfielders and defenders often sidelined. Blum is addressing these issues by implementing comprehensive physical conditioning programs, collaborating closely with physiotherapists, and adjusting training intensity to reduce overuse injuries.
Blum's rejuvenation efforts for FV Neufra/Do. include integrating academy players and local young talents into the first team, promoting long-term sustainability and fresh energy. He is also introducing a more progressive tactical approach, emphasizing ball control, quick transitions, and flexible formations. Fitness and nutrition are being enhanced, with a focus on injury prevention and recovery protocols.
Team morale and culture are also crucial to Blum, who is fostering a positive locker room atmosphere, encouraging leadership among senior players, and creating a strong collective identity. Targeted recruitment is another key aspect of his strategy, with the club management identifying several key experienced players to bring balance and mentorship to the squad.
FV Neufra/Do. II will face teams like TSV Riedlingen II, SV Betzenweiler, and SV Dürmentingen in Kreisliga A 2 Oberschwaben this season. The team is satisfied with the league draw, despite not facing Daugendorf/Unlingen or Altheim (both promoted to Kreisliga A 1). The team's aim is to integrate younger players in its rejuvenation efforts, with Manuel Fischer, who was out injured for a year, set to return to the team.
The appointment of Joshua Blum as head coach of FV Neufra/Do. was confirmed by Norbert Selg, Chairman of the FVN, to the "Schwäbische Zeitung". Brehm and Mario Miller will continue to support Blum in his role. With Blum at the helm, FV Neufra/Do. looks poised for a period of steady growth and competitive resurgence in Kreisliga A 2 Oberschwaben.
Blum is encouraging the integration of academy players and local young talents into the first team, applying a more progressive tactical approach that emphasizes ball control, quick transitions, and flexible formations. To further strengthen the team's competitive edge, he is implementing comprehensive physical conditioning programs to address injuries, working closely with physiotherapists and adjusting training intensity to reduce overuse injuries.
