How to Follow the ABCs of Youth Soccer Coaching (E-H)

To do a good job with children, see yourself first as a child educator and second as a soccer coach. The ABCs of coaching, created by Ashley's Soccer Camp in Montclair, New Jersey, and adopted by coaches nationwide, can help you do that.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• """Laws of the Game"""

1. Be energetic. Always show plenty of enthusiasm. This may become a challenge at times, but dig deep into your reserves. Children respond best to activities if they know you are putting in a lot of energy.

2. Provide fun and flexibility. Always ask yourself, "Are they having fun doing this?" If not, be flexible and try something new.

3. Play games. A games-based approach to teaching means that children learn better and have more fun from playing games, not repeating exercises or doing drills.

4. Have control. Without control, teaching cannot take place. Children need some boundaries. It is best to clearly communicate your rules and expectations early in the season.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn the language. Understand the sport you are coaching, including its vocabulary.
• Hit the books. Consider taking a soccer coaching license course. It will help you learn about soccer. In addition, many leagues require that coaches have licenses.
• Learn the "Laws of the Game." These are the official rules of soccer, often slightly adapted by youth leagues.
• Start out slowly. Volunteer to be an assistant coach at first in order to learn the ropes.
• Become a student of the game. Watch teams and players of similar age to your child. Also, watch older teams so you know what to expect as you move along.
• Ask around. While watching soccer, ask knowledgeable spectators what is going on. You'll be surprised how much you can learn.
• Get support if you're a woman. Female coaches are less common than male coaches - and greatly appreciated. But chances are they'll need extra support and encouragement.

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