VAA Soccer Coach's Pages

Some Random Thoughts on Coaching by Colin Brownlow

1. Equipment to take to every practice and game:

• ziploc bag or ice or icebag
• clean damp cloth in a ziploc bag
• clean dry cloth
• Band-Aids
• elastic bandage
• small container to hold small valuables

At the first practice find some time to talk to the parents. You need to let the parents know that you expect them to be at the first practice. Before you hand out schedules, shirts and socks, lay down some basic expectations: The Parents' Code of Ethics and the Players' Code of Ethics in the VAA soccer manual should be reviewed. Stress to the parents that this is an all weather game. Show up at the field whether or not it is raining - the call will be made at the time of the game. Let the parents know that there is only one coach, they should not yell instructions to the players, nor should they be yelling at the referees. The expectation should be that all adults involved contribute to a positive environment for the children.

• Have a plan for every practice
• Start every practice on time, no matter how many players show up
• Keep the practices lively - no standing around
• Split the players into small groups whenever possible
• Look for opportunities to praise each player
• Correction should be individual and private
• Young children need frequent breaks, older children can go for longer periods without a break.  In hot weather have frequent breaks.
• Try no to do too much in any one practice.
• End every practice with a scrimmage.  That is the children's reward for practicing.  The scrimmage should have as little adult involvement as possible.

• A coach or assistant coach should always arrive early for a game
• Have players come at least 10 to 15 minutes prior to a game
• Warm the players up prior to the game
• Warm-ups should be simple passing, dribbling, or ball control exercises
• Do NOT have players warm-up by shooting on net.  It is unrealistic and can result in injury to cold muscles and joints.
• Warm up goal keepers prior to the start of the game.  Warm-ups should start very slowly.  No hard shots on the keeper.
• Stay positive during the game and try to minimize the side line coaching.

<bc@bjb.org >