How to Follow the ABCs of Youth Soccer Coaching (V-Z)

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.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Practice versatility. Whatever the conditions, a coach must be able to handle a changing environment with ease and confidence. Whether this means changing a game or enlarging a cramped playing area, a coach needs to be thinking all the time.
2. Say "When I say go" and "Ready, go." This is the opposite command from "And stop." Use it as a way of starting an activity. Strong emphasis should be placed on the word "go," and children should learn to react only to this word, and not before it is said.
3. Explain activities clearly. Be simple, clear and concise when asking players to carry out a command. Make all requests appropriate to the age and ability of the players.
4. Watch for, "Why is the coach always on the winning team?" A coach is there to teach and not to dominate the game. Do not be tempted to demonstrate your skills too much, which can make children bored or unhappy.
5. Careful of "zzzz." This means that the children are drifting off, for a variety of reasons. If the majority of children are not interested in an activity, chances are that it is unsuitable.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep track of medical records. They should be carried to all games, along with signed waivers so that a child can be treated in the event of an emergency.
• Look to yourself, your plan or your activity before you blame the children for being bored. If they lose interest, the game could be too difficult, too easy or not fun.
• Make sure you scan a playing field for safety. Take a look around, and a walk, as a means of checking, especially if the area is new.
• Try not to spend more than 30 seconds continuously talking; otherwise, players tend to lose concentration.