For Dothan United head coach Carl Reynolds, coaching is more than just strategy—it’s a lifelong pursuit of growth and learning. This mindset led him to take a trip back to his roots in England, immersing himself in the highest levels of football development to refine his coaching skills.
Returning to the Pinnacle of Football
Growing up in England, Reynolds was surrounded by the culture of Premier League football from an early age, both as a player and as a fan of the sport. Many of his friends now play and work within Premier League organizations, giving him access to valuable insights into the inner workings of top-tier clubs. “European football is the pinnacle,” Reynolds said. “If you want to continue to better yourself as a coach, you have to put yourself in an environment where you are challenged and where they think outside the box.”
This belief sparked his decision to spend time at Chelsea, Southampton, and Brighton—three prestigious clubs known for their player development and coaching philosophies. With close connections in these organizations, including his best friend who serves as the head of coaching at Southampton, Reynolds had a unique opportunity to witness firsthand how elite clubs operate at the highest level.
Lessons from the Best
One of the most striking takeaways from Reynolds’ experience was the level of clarity within these clubs. “Everyone’s roles are clearly defined. Strengths and weaknesses are identified, and there’s a clear understanding of responsibilities,” he explained. That is something he hopes to bring back to Dothan United. “The way we are doing things at Dothan is not far removed from what they are doing at the high level over in England,” he professed. Although there is always work to be done, Dothan is committed to running the organization to reflect the highest level like the ones in the Premier League sphere.
Beyond structural organization, Reynolds was particularly inspired by the emphasis on individual player development. He observed how these clubs conduct player meetings, the content they focus on, and the meticulous approach they take toward improving individual skill sets. “The better the coaches, the better the players. And the better the players, the better the team,” he emphasized.
Implementing the Lessons at Dothan United
Reynolds believes that small details make a significant difference, and he plans to integrate new methods into Dothan United’s system this season. From adjusting the way meetings are conducted to refining player development strategies, his goal is to create an environment where both players and coaches are constantly evolving.
His philosophy is clear: “If you can improve the individual, you can improve the team. By improving myself, I’m improving the whole organization, the experience, and the opportunities we get and provide,” he said.
A Message to Fellow Coaches
Reynolds’ journey is a testament to the importance of continuous learning. His advice to fellow coaches is simple: never stop seeking knowledge. “Be brave enough to believe in your philosophies and the way you see the game, but be humble enough to be a student of the game at all times and know there is always more to learn. Get out there, pick as many brains as possible, and learn from your network, contacts, and mentors.”
As Dothan United prepares for the upcoming season, Reynolds’ experience in England will help shape the club’s approach, fostering a culture of excellence both on and off the field. His commitment to learning and growth is not just an investment in himself, it’s an investment in the future of Dothan United.
Article by: Liana Shapiro
Photos provided by Carl Reynolds