Understanding the Game
As a coach, it is our job to provide a positive learning environment in which athletes can develop their football skills. It is also our role to ensure all athletes, regardless of ability, receive a fair opportunity to play and progress their skills. It is important, too, that the athlete develop a love for the game of football, have fun and enjoy themselves.
It is also important that we develop their social skills. Players must be taught to respect their coaches, officials, their organization and each other. In addition, athletes:
- Must be encouraged to always try their best;
- Must respect the referees and the laws of the game; and,
- Most importantly, they must respect the opposition, and be gracious winners as well as gracious losers.
Players will react to a good, organized coach who keeps them interested and active. It is always better to prepare training sessions on paper.
- Organize quickly
- Be positive and purposeful
- Show enthusiasm
- Look and act the part
- Have the correct equipment
- Always stay calm under pressure, do not yell
- Always praise, especially for effort
- Understand that player development is more important than winning
Players will learn through repetition, fun and enjoyment, small-sided games, praise and positive reinforcement, good coaching and demonstration.
Players will not learn:
- If you tell them how to perform a skill instead of showing them
- If you do not give them enough ball contact
- If you emphasize winning
Players will not perform:
- If you give abusive and destructive criticism
- When there is hysterical sideline shouting from the coach and parents
Do not assume that lower ability players will know what the basic purpose or goal of the game is. Such players may have difficulty with simple concepts, such as distinguishing between teammates and opponents, and knowing in which direction to kick. However, with persistence, these things can be taught to any player.
Ball familiarity is also important. Some players respond to having a ball thrown at them, however, most do not. It is always better to give the player the ball and see what he does with it, then adapt training to suit. Always explain clearly, if the player does not understand, take a different approach.
Even 5-a-side football can seem complicated to a beginner player. Teach players about the basic purpose and organization of the game through minifootball games. Progress from the simplest one vs. one contests, up to full 5-a-side games, as players become more familiar with the basic principles and rules of play. A coach can create minifootball games to teach basic game principles. Minifootball games should become a part of every practice.
The best way to teach football is to play the game. This gives players an understanding of the concepts. From here, you can break up play into specific drills. To enhance players' skills when running to warm up, use a ball at their feet. Always encourage players, and pick out what they are doing right, more than what they are doing wrong. Try and adapt training to be fun and interesting. Most importantly, include progression in the drills so that their ability is challenged.
