Maybe coaches should ask themselves when they are offered the job as a coach “Do I really know what I’m doing?” Am I capable of teaching kids the skills and techniques of the game in a proper coaching manner and environment? Some coaches really need to ask themselves questions i.e. the coach that shouts and roars at the U12 running through on goal. We all have an area in our life that needs development, whether we like to believe it or not. I know that games can get very exciting at times and things get heated, but on a regular basis, coaches and parents need to look at the long term effect of the child that is constantly told to hit it up the field, pass it, go for your own score, run with it, all in the one go! The current mind set and system is failing the game, therefore a change in mentality is needed, by educating the doubters and developing the skills of the uneducated, i.e. coaches and parents.
The adults need to remember that children are not Mini-adults; they do not think like adults, each child is unique and that one size DOES NOT FIT ALL. Adults also need to remember to let the kids enjoy the game. Competitive leagues from an early age put a huge emphasis on winning. This leads to parents and coaches wanting to win more, and even more than the kids do themselves. This in hand lays the biggest problem. The golden age is between seven years of age to twelve years of age, in almost every sport. Focusing on winning all of the time takes from seeing the golden generation and unfortunately seeing the lost generation. Therefore maybe a better coaching philosophy is needed? Maybe regular foundation coaching courses are needed? Or non-competitive leagues for the lower age groups that gives the children the chance to enjoy their play time and a chance for development.
- Suck on a Chupa Chup.. You are guaranteed satisfaction and it will occupy your mouth for a while
- Visualize somewhere calm and relaxing, the Bahamas for example
- If you are finding it tough, be prepared and bring a yoga mat with you. You might look crazy practicing yoga on the side line but it’s better than shouting your head off, right?
- Filter your thoughts; If you have something to say, delay it for 10 seconds… and then think about the Bahamas again!!
- Most important fact of all, Remind yourself that you are there to show your child support and encouragement and if the game doesn’t go well
Author: Ruth Jones - 4th year BB (Hons) in Recreation and Sport Management Student.