4 Key Points for Coaches Working with Kids

In this video, soccer coach Malcolm Brown shares his dos and don’ts for coaching youth soccer. Whether you’re just starting as a coach or have experience, there’s always something new you can learn to improve your coaching style and benefit your team.

Malcolm Brown is a renowned soccer coach and player development expert who founded Klassic Soccer, a New York-based soccer coaching program focused on individual skill development and team building. He emphasizes individual skill development, creativity, and decision-making, and believes in fostering a positive team culture and encouraging players to take ownership of their development.

Key Takeaways

Three important points from Malcolm’s video:

1. Avoid using laps as a warm-up activity. Instead, focus on drills that involve players touching the ball and making decisions, such as dribbling and passing drills.

2. Be mindful of your language when coaching kids. Avoid yelling and ranting and instead set clear expectations and rules for behavior, and provide constructive feedback.

3. Use line drills effectively, ensuring every player has a chance to participate and receive repetitions. Consider incorporating small-sided games and activities that encourage creativity and decision-making.

Step-by-Step Process

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of some of the key points made in the video:

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 behavior.

3. Line drills: Use line drills effectively, 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: Provide constructive feedback and positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior and effort.

Resources Mentioned

Resources mentioned in the video and their roles:

– 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 technique that rewards good behavior and effort rather than punishing bad behavior.

My Best Advice

As an expert in soccer coaching, my best advice is always to be open to learning and trying new things. The world of soccer coaching is constantly evolving, and seeking out resources to improve your skills and knowledge, and asking for help when needed can make you a better coach.

FAQ

Some frequently asked questions and their answers:

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

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

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

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

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.