How to Deal With Competition in Youth Soccer

Competition is part of soccer, and part of life. Taking a positive approach to competition and teaching children how to deal with it will enhance both game skills and life skills.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soccer Apparel
• Soccer Cleats
• Soccer Shin Guards
• Soccer Uniforms
• Soccer Videos
• soccer balls

1. Make sure competition is introduced at an appropriate age. For younger players, the emphasis should be on fun. Until at least age six or seven, there should be no formal competition.

2. Monitor the level of competition. Too intense competition at a young age(especially under 10) is not a good idea.

3. Play down the competition aspect of the game. Focus instead on relative success and enjoyment of the game.

4. Keep a distance. Don't get too caught up in the game yourself. This will ensure that you can help your child keep perspective as well.

5. Learn as you go along. The focus and purpose of competition changes as a youth player advances.

6. Get competitive fires stoked sparingly. There are a limited number of times any athlete should "go to the well" - both physically and emotionally.

7. Make sure you devote equal attention and intensity to girls' competition. Their game should be every bit as competitive as the boys'.

Tips & Warnings

• Wait until the dust dies down. Sometimes it is helpful not to discuss competition immediately after a game. Give things time to settle down.
• Take cues from your children. Some children need to work out aspects of competition with parents; some do it on their own or with peers.
• Ask your child for guidance. Some children like to be stimulated to compete; others don't. Ask how your child feels, for example, hearing you cheer during a game. Ask what is useful and what is not.
• Stress sportsmanship. Particularly in the heat of competition, make sure your player deals with teammates, officials and competitors in a respectful manner.
• Remember that soccer is, and always will be, only a game. Seeing the larger picture will help your child to see it, too.

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