How to Decide Whether to Be a Youth Soccer Coach

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor

Rate: (4 Ratings)

Many parents are called upon, or volunteer, to coach youth soccer. But few parents have played this game. You don't have to play soccer to coach. You do, however, need to take some other important steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Step1
Consider the commitment. It takes a lot of time and energy to coach properly. Make sure you have both before signing on.
Step2
Run it by your child. See how he or she feels about you coaching, and if there are any objections. You might want to reconsider - or coach another team - if your child feels uncomfortable with your plans.
Step3
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.
Step4
Start out slowly. Volunteer to be an assistant coach at first in order to learn the ropes.
Step5
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.
Step6
Ask around. Find other coaches with good reputations and get to know them. Ask for their advice.
Step7
Observe other coaches. Attend games to watch, especially those coached by someone with a good reputation.
Step8
Get support if you're a woman. Female coaches are less common than male coaches - and greatly appreciated. But chances are you'll need extra support and encouragement.

Tips & Warnings

  • Be prepared. Consider whether you have the ability to stay at least one step ahead of those you are coaching - both in knowledge and preparation.
  • Learn the language. Understand the sport you are coaching, including its vocabulary.
  • Use an expert. You don't have to play the sport to be a coach. But do find a skilled person to use for demonstrations.
  • Study the rules. You should be prepared by know at least the local rules of the activity you are coaching. Knowing the national or international rules would be a bonus.

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 1/4/2006 Soccer is a game which is fun to the mind and also the heart, it keeps it what I am made me who I am and also what I want other soccer lovers to be. A sport which improves your mentality and makes you a better person cost of the requirement to play soccer, compassion agility and also relaxed. I want to share this experience with everyone who wants to know about soccer or knows about soccer.

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