COACHING EDUCATION
As a youth coach, your primary goal is to create an environment that mirrors the joy and freedom of the “pickup” games we all loved as kids. In those games, creativity and personality developed naturally, free from adult intervention. Your role is to provide a space where kids can play freely, explore their skills, and express themselves through the game. Organize just enough to set the stage for this kind of growth.
Focus on building comfort with the ball and encouraging players to use their skills boldly and creatively. At younger ages, dribbling is key. It’s how kids learn to control the ball and develop a foundation for every other skill in soccer. Remember, gaining control over the ball takes a lot of focus and energy—it’s no small task! Be patient and supportive. Passing and teamwork will come naturally once players have mastered this essential building block. Celebrate their effort and progress, and watch their love for the game grow!
Consider these two points. Children from about age 6 to 12 have an almost limitless capacity to learn body movement and coordination (i.e., motor skills). At the same time, their intellectual ability to understand spatial concepts like positions and group play is limited. Work to their strengths.
TRAINING TIPS
Keep it Fun! Kids love playing games and keeping score.
- Select and play activities that are more game like.
- Limit activities that incorporate lines. Everyone should stay active and participate.
- Maximize “touches” on the ball. There should be at least 100 touches per practice for each player.
- Teach proper technique and emphasize games that practice technique or simulate play or playing situations.
- Play games by keeping time (i.e., so they last 1,3, or 5 minutes) or by keeping score (i.e., first to 3, 12, etc. wins).
- Praise effort, improvement, and the right attitude. Measure each player’s performance by his/her growth and energy, and not by comparing them to someone else. Try to motivate in a positive way that builds self-esteem.
BRSC Director of Coaching addresses Recreational Coaches on the BRSC's philosophy to coaching and player development.
Developing Players
Start by building confidence in your players, no matter their skill level. Help your developing players feel more comfortable with the ball while encouraging your stronger players to push their creativity to the next level. Confidence is the game-changer. The more time players spend with the ball at their feet—whether in practice or games—the more comfortable and fearless they’ll become. This leads to players eager to get involved, try new things, and, most importantly, enjoy the game to its fullest.
Focus on helping each player progress at their own pace. Don’t stress over match results. Instead, aim to create an environment where every player wants the ball at their feet and feels driven to score. If your players are excited to step on the field and take on new challenges, you’ve succeeded in fostering their growth as soccer players and instilling a lifelong love for the game.
