• Individualism—Remember each child is unique, with differing skill levels and attention spans.
• Role Model—Coaches, instructors, and teachers are role models.
• Participation is emphasized, not winning.
• Fun—Prepare each practice and game for the enjoyment of each player.
• Safety—Safe drills, clean game play, re-check fields and goal posts, beware of busy streets, etc.
• Listen to the children’s’ needs, wants, and input.
• Confidence—Emphasize the positive and minimize the negative.
• Sportsmanship—Fair play, no taunting, no trash talking, graceful regardless of outcome.
• Organization—Pre-plan practices and games. Create an outline for the entire season: skills to be developed, drills, and rotation of each player through each position.
• Develop soccer skills through free-form activity not just through drills and rules.
• Parents will need your attention. Encourage their positive participation.
• Positive experience for all: players, coaches, parents, and referees. Please do all that you can to make this the best season yet!
