How to Motivate Youth Players

An issue that many coaches and parents face is how to motivate young players, whether it is on the football field, basketball court, golf course or any other sporting venue. Children lose interest in an activity once it begins to feel like a chore, conflicts with their social activities or if the team fails to win any games or trophies. There are several strategies any coach or parent can use to keep kids interested in a sport for the long haul.

Things You'll Need

  • Sports films
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep the activity fun. Avoid making the games and practices about performance and winning. Instead, watch the children and when they are lagging or become discouraged, stop the practice and start a fun activity, such as a game of tag or dodge ball.

    • 2

      Reward wins and well as losses. When the team wins, bring them to a local ice cream parlor or treat them to a movie night. If the team loses, celebrate the good points of the game and the team's effort. When there is a celebration no matter the outcome of the game, it will motivate kids to do their best.

    • 3

      Allow all of the players, no matter what their skill level, to actively participate in the games and practices. Do not show preferential treatment to some children because they are more talented than the other players. This will keep everyone on the team enthusiastic about continuing the sport.

    • 4

      Watch films about the sport. For instance, a team viewing of "The Mighty Ducks" will motivate young hockey players to play the game while being entertaining and providing a break from rigorous practices.

    • 5

      Provide positive comments to each child one-on-one. During practice or after games, pull each of the kids aside and tell them how they have improved or comment on a positive aspect of their performance. This personal attention and positive reinforcement will help keep the players happy and coming back to the activity.

    • 6

      Ask parents, other family members and the community to get involved. Encourage people from the community to come to games and cheer on the team. Hold a fundraiser, such as a bake sale or car wash, to get the support of families and raise money for the team.