1. Effort is more important than systems and tactics
Yes, we know that you like to play with your tactics and training in an attempt to defeat your opponents; the truth is, the effort of your players will invariably be the difference between winning and losing, especially if both teams are similarly matched in terms of skill. Instill in your players the importance of giving everything on the field and going out knowing that they have nothing left to give. Win or lose, if they give their all, they can be happy and so can you.
2. What you know is not as important as your personality and ability to relate to your players.
Any coach can improve his understanding of the game by reading the literally endless pages of advice and help that you will find on the Internet. Sure, if one coach knows nothing at all and another coach has a lot of experience, the latter will probably be a better coach. However, not all coaches have or are willing to develop their personality and approach to the game to bring out the best in the children under their command.
3. Internships don’t have to be complicated
Performing complex drills can be confusing for young players, while exercising for too long becomes boring. If you make these mistakes, your players will lose interest very quickly. Your practices should be based on small games and practice, as they relate directly to the game day situations. Of course, some exercises based on individual skills are a good idea, but you should aim to move into small games and skirmish for most of the practice.
4. Winning is not the goal; your focus should be on improving your players and developing your love for the game
Yes, we know that winning has become the beginning and the end for soccer coaches of all levels, especially in recent years. However, it shouldn’t be your focus as a young player coach. You want them to ultimately get better and learn to love the game. Nobody likes to lose, but even if you are winning matches, if you are not training your players in the right way, letting them express themselves and make mistakes without fear of being yelled at, chances are they will eventually fall in love with the game.
They need to enjoy the freedom to play without being judged whether they win or lose. If you encourage them at all times and focus on the positive things they do rather than the negative, they will improve faster and enjoy just playing. Players improve faster when they enjoy doing something, it is important to remember that.
5. The biggest secret is that there are no ‘secrets’!
There really is no big secret to coaching soccer. Sure, there are different lineups, tactics, playing styles, and training methods, but they are all available to all coaches, experienced or beginners, simply by looking for information on the internet.
Ultimately, it is up to the player to develop a deep connection with the game, with the ball. As a coach, you can facilitate that and therefore have a great responsibility on your shoulders. Encourage your players, give them freedom, teach them to play with pride, passion and integrity and to respect their opponents and match officials. Finally, remember that children’s soccer is a players game, not a coaches game.