Football, feats of learning, and the power of (re)framing
14 November 2025
This past weekend, while attending the Middle School Boys’ Football final in Prague – ICS vs. ISP – I had the privilege of watching coach Jonathan Mowjoudi deliver a master class in poise, class, level-headedness, mental framing, and leadership. It was a nail-biter of a game that, tragically, ended in ICS losing out in penalty shots. There were many ups and downs, bad calls, and unlucky bounces. Beyond the technical work of coaching, what really stood out was Jonathan’s focus on the boys’ states of mind and his ability to quickly and continuously draw them out of negative mental cycles. Observers could actually see negative thought-feeling-behaviour patterns reversing course as Jonathan spurred them on; shoulders started to pull back, postures began to correct themselves.
By drawing attention to body language, by insisting on mental resets in response to setbacks, and by keeping the focus on what the boys could control – themselves and their style of play – Jonathan was able to help the boys keep up the fight. What’s more is that Jonathan led by example, not once losing his cool at bogus calls or entertaining the idea that the team’s success depended on the quality of arbitration (even if it sometimes did). Our team walked off the pitch that day as true winners, having achieved a new level of mental strength and character. I have never been more proud to represent ICS. For those who know Jonathan as a master teacher and Learning Support Coordinator, his approach to coaching will come as no surprise.
Every good teacher knows that in order to help students access their potential, focus on academic progress is not enough. Learning anything worthwhile is hard and requires expert social & emotional support. At some point or another, a learner will fall into what we educators affectionately call “the pit.” Essentially, the pit is a state of not knowing. It can be an uncomfortable place, fraught with second-guessing and self-doubt. But with the support of a master teacher, who can help a child reframe their thinking, manage their emotions, and keep their energies trained on an appropriate locus of control, children can and will produce incredible results. To all our intrepid learners, coaches, and teachers, thank you for your courage, your perseverance, and your fortitude.
In partnership,
Gabriel Di Mauro
Secondary Principal
Interim ex-officio Head of School