How to Coach Very Young Soccer Players

Coaching young soccer players can be a rewarding hobby. Watching the children' develop soccer skills, as well as watching them have fun and learn the rules of a game and the value of good sportsmanship, can be a very valuable experience. A firm knowledge of the game of soccer and an understanding of the way children learn in the age range you're working with, will help significantly in coaching young soccer players. Patience, kindness and encouragement also will be valuable coaching assets.

Instructions

  1. Explain the Game

    • 1

      Ask your players what they know about soccer. It is always a good idea when teaching children to start with what they know. Gauge the level of knowledge your players have based on their answers to your first question.

    • 2

      Explain the rules of the game to your soccer team on the first day of practice. Discuss the details slowly, and tell your players to ask questions if they are confused.

    • 3

      Speak in terms that the are appropriate to age of your soccer team--do not use complicated or technical jargon. When you're done explaining the rules of the game, ask your players specific questions about what you've just taught them.

    Skills and Team Spirit

    • 4

      Introduce soccer techniques and strategies through fun games and drills. Pair your players and show them how to kick the ball to each other. Teach the team in pairs how to dribble the ball across the field. Although you are teaching serious and real skills, the players should be enjoying their time on the field.

    • 5

      Foster team spirit by switching partners often so that the players get to know each other well. Use whole-team drills such dribbling and passing relay races. Introduce the players to the team "huddle" and help them develop a team cheer.

    • 6

      Foster healthy competition. Split the team into two smaller teams and have them play a simple game of soccer. Encourage both teams equally. Focus on developing player skills while the whole team is playing--this gives you an opportunity to work with individual players who need extra help. Emphasize good sportsmanship by talking with your players after the scrimmage about what it means to be a "good sport."