The Coach
Coaches are probably the most important part of a child’s experience in soccer. Studies show that coaches can have a larger impact on a child’s behavior than parents or teachers. It may be because the coach is an adult in an accepted position of authority rather than one that’s imposed. So it’s very important that as a parent you take an interest in ensuring that your child has a good competent coach that can serve as a role model.
The coach is often a parent who was at the last second thrown into the job. It is estimated that there are over 300 000 parent-soccer coaches in North America. Today both the United States and Canada have national coaching certification programs. Most leagues and clubs in youth soccer require coaches to have some level of certification. You should find out what the requirements are for coaches at your child’s club. If your club or league does not require coaches to be certified, now is a good time to start.
What makes a good coach? Well, certification is a place to start; though it doesn’t guarantee anything. Relying simply on someone who ‘played the game’ is not always a good idea. Coaching is not simply about knowing soccer. Knowledge is useless if you can’t communicate and organize effectively. A lack of soccer experience, but willingness to learn can be a fantastic coaching advantage.
The coach’s job can be simply stated. “The role of the coach, no matter what the level of soccer, is to help the players be the best they can be.” There is no good reason for players at any level not to improve their game. The coach must also recognize that the methods for achieving this are different for every team and player. This can, and must be a process that everyone enjoys.
The coach’s primary requirement is establishing a positive environment for the team. Without it, it doesn’t matter how much they know about soccer. Players should be having fun because they are being challenged in a positive and constructive way. When players enjoy themselves they are more receptive to learning. This applies to both competitive and recreational soccer.
