4 Don’ts in Soccer: Tips for Coaches Working with Kids

As someone who has worked with various organisations and has travelled to different countries, I’ve gained a lot of knowledge and experience in the world of soccer coaching. I am sharing this video on coaching youth soccer with you on the dos and don’ts. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or just starting, there’s always something new to learn that can help you improve your coaching style and benefit your team.
Malcolm Brown, a well-known soccer coach and player development figure, created the video. He founded Klassic Soccer, a soccer coaching program based in New York that focuses on individual skill development and team building.
Malcolm has dedicated his career to coaching young players and helping them reach their full potential. He has worked with various organisations and has travelled to different countries to gain valuable knowledge and experience in soccer coaching.
Malcolm’s coaching philosophy emphasises the importance of individual skill development, creativity, and decision-making. He believes in fostering a positive team culture and encouraging players to take ownership of their development. His programs and methods have proven effective in developing young players. His contributions to the soccer community have been widely recognised and appreciated.

Key Takeaways

Here are three critical takeaways from Malcolm’s video:

1. Avoid laps as a warm-up activity. Instead, focus on activities that allow players to touch the ball and make decisions, such as dribbling and passing drills.
2. Watch your language when coaching kids. Yelling and ranting at players is not appropriate and can be counterproductive. Instead, set clear expectations and rules for behaviour, and provide constructive feedback.
3. Use line drills effectively. Make sure every player gets a chance to participate and receive repetitions, and consider incorporating small-sided games and other activities that encourage creativity and decision-making.

Step-by-Step Process

Malcolm covers several dos and don’ts of coaching youth soccer in his video. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of some of the key points he makes:

1. Warm-ups: Instead of using laps, incorporate drills that allow players to touch the ball and make decisions, such as dribbling and passing exercises.
2. Language: Be mindful of your language when coaching kids. Avoid yelling and ranting, and focus on setting clear expectations and rules for behaviour.
3. Line drills: Use line drills effectively by ensuring every player can participate and receive repetitions. Consider incorporating small-sided games and other activities that encourage creativity and decision-making.
4. Avoid lecturing: Kids don’t respond well to lectures. Instead, provide constructive feedback and positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviour and effort.

Resources Mentioned

Here are some of the resources mentioned in the video and what they do:

• Coerver Coaching: A global soccer coaching program focusing on individual skill development and creativity.
• Small-sided games: Soccer games with fewer players on the field, encourage creativity and decision-making.
• Positive reinforcement: A behaviour modification technique that rewards good behaviour and effort rather than punishing bad behaviour.

My Best Advice

As an expert in the soccer coaching niche, my best advice is always to be open to learning and trying new things. The world of soccer coaching is constantly evolving, and there’s always something new to know that can help you become a better coach. Feel free to ask for help or seek out resources to improve your skills and knowledge.

FAQ

Q: How important is positive reinforcement in coaching youth soccer?

A: Positive reinforcement is crucial in coaching youth soccer. It helps to build players’ confidence, encourages good behavior and effort, and fosters a positive team culture.

Q: What are some effective drills for improving players’ skills?

A: Dribbling and passing drills are both great for improving players’ skills. For younger players, activities that focus on coordination and balance can also be effective.

Q: How can I encourage creativity and decision-making in my players?

A: Incorporating small-sided games and activities that require players to make decisions and problem-solve can be effective in encouraging creativity and decision-making.