How To

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

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(4 Ratings)

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. Step 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. Step 2

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

  3. Step 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. Step 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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