Little league outdoor sports begin when the seasons change. With the green grass and warmer temperature comes volunteer opportunities. Yes, I’m talking about volunteering to help with your kids soccer teams. They might need a coach or assistant coach and I’m here to help you make the most of this season. You can coach soccer!
I know your feeling overwhelmed just thinking about coaching soccer
Volunteering to coach your child’s little league team does not mean that you have to be perfect and create all stars in one season. Especially when dealing with young kids. Breathe and keep reading. You can do this and I can help.
1. Remember Soccer is a game
Have fun with the kids. Teach them different skills by using games to develop their abilities. Kids that are enjoying themselves will listen more and perform better. Get involved with the fun, you’re there so you might as well have a good time too.
2. Build your group into a team
Taking a group of rambunctious kids and turning them into a team takes work. During each practice you have try and unite the kids. Make up a fun cheer or hand shake for after games. Choose a name together. Work together as a team on passing or play teamwork games to build unity.
3. Losing isn’t the end of the world
Game time is time to be serious but don’t let the goals or lack thereof take away from the joy of chasing a ball down the field. Of course it sucks to lose but as their soccer coach you can influence how they react after games.
When you lose, talk to your team about what can be learned from the game and how they can improve for the next game. Its okay to feel disappointed but its not good to stay disappointed.
4. Being a good sport matters
When you win, be gracious. Tell the other team good game and shake their hands. Praise your teams success but don’t belittle the other team. Being a good sport also comes into play during the game. Teach your team to play fair and to respect their opponents and referee’s. You don’t have to always agree with them but there is no need to be a behave poorly.
5. Focus on the basics
Focus on mastering the simple skills that make up soccer. Kicking. Passing. Teamwork. Throwing. Stopping balls with feet or hands, that is if your the goalie.
Bonus Tip: Don’t worry about the other parents
Everyone has an opinion. Everyone wants their kid to succeed. The truth is; its not your job to cater to parents. Do your best to help each individual child and create a positive environment for the kids to learn and have fun. Focus on the kids and you will have done your job as a volunteer coach.
Each age group has different abilities and interests.
Below you will find links to my coaching tips for different age groups.
If I haven’t completed the age category your looking for yet then drop me a message or comment below and I’ll finish the post for you.
Coach U4
Coach U5
Good luck and have a wonderful season!
Shiree | Confessions of Parenting says
These are great tips! My kids love to do soccer, but I never saw myself as the type to volunteer to coach. Your tips may make it easier for me to jump in next time they are in need.
Thanks for joining #wanderingwednesday!
Side By Side Learning says
You can do it Shiree!! I was so worried my first season but now I love it. Give it a try and you might just love it.