The Power of Positive Youth Coaching
At Blizzards, we firmly believe that players should develop in a fun environment; we want soccer to be the most fun part of the week. If soccer is not fun, why is a child going to want to come and play a game or attend a practice session? And who is the person who is going to have the most influence on this? Of course, it is the coach.
As coaches, we have a duty to ensure that all of our players, irrespective of playing ability or age, enjoy youth soccer in a safe, constructive and fun environment. Unfortunately, a win at all cost mentality, including punishments for mistakes can creep into a coach’s armoury. Hearing a coach yell “You aren’t working hard enough” or “That is awful, come and sit on the bench”, is becoming far too common throughout Calgary, and in some isolated cases, I am sorry to say, Blizzards.
The way in which we communicate with our players and what we say has a lasting effect on and off the sports field. We are not just soccer coaches; we are lifestyle coaches for all of our Blizzard players. An alternative practice approach, based on positive feedback and communication can be used to inspire youth players to be creative, have fun, and enjoy learning this beautiful game.
You’re the kind of person who..”
What a great way to build the confidence of a youth athlete by saying “You’re the kind of person who always works hard in practice” or “You’re the kind of player who can affect a game with your hard work, effort and determination”. The mention of effort, hard work and determination can have a very positive effect on young athletes. Praising hard work can have a great