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Coaching
SIX POINTS OF EMPHASIS FOR COACHES:
1. The goal is to put kids in certain situations so that the game can be the teacher. Kids would much rather learn for themselves than be told what to do (with that being said, limit the standing around time—get them right into the flow of the game or activity). Coaches should strive to help the conditioned exercises/games work so that it presents a fun environment for players to learn a specific skill.
2. Look to make certain adjustments that allow the exercise/game to work and be enjoyable for the players. If the activity doesn’t have much flow to it, look for a way to make it work. For example, if a playing area needs to be adjusted, the coach should quickly decide to make the area bigger or smaller, depending on what will help aid the purpose of the activity. Also, embrace the idea of repeating certain exercises and games throughout the season. At all levels of soccer, great coaches often rerun specific training sessions, as players can often “run further” with specific exercises the second, third, and fourth time they see it. However, don’t be afraid to make adjustments and tweak these exercises, keeping them fresh as well as possibly introducing new soccer concepts.
3. On the same note, look to keep the players engaged. Exercise your right as a coach to improvise within a practice. Kids love competition, so don’t hesitate to add a competitive element to an exercise or game if the kids need some motivation. Also, don’t be afraid to add a goal or a shooting/scoring element to an activity. All of these exercises/games can be adjusted or modified in many different ways that allow the kids to re-engage while still focusing on a specific technique or topic.
4. Push proper technique and player development. Some things will be uncomfortable for players at first, but they should not be afraid to fail while trying
5. Address the group when talking about specific areas that need improvement. Ask the kids—make them a part of the education. Don’t interject too much—try to put them in a position where they can learn for themselves (maybe watch for 3-5 minutes, try to remember 1-3 of the most important points and then ask them to focus on those for the next five minutes).
6. Place an emphasis on players making each other better with play and with attitude. This is a core element of soccer at any level and something the kids need to learn how to do in order to be successful in this sport.
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