Activity must be one of your main goals when dealing with young players. You must understand that, 'players come to practice to play.' Therefore, any activity that does not involve playing soccer may become disruptive.

Clarify your practice session rules and expectations through individual and team discussions. That is, having the team decide what is appropriate and inappropriate behavior. It's actually fun to have them vote on their own practice session rules. Then you must act firmly, fairly, consistently and matter of factly when their actions go against their own established rules.

Teach less! When players and balls are moving, soccer learning is taking place. When players and balls stop moving, soccer learning stops!
Ask yourself - Does it happen in the game (i.e., drills)?
If the answer is YES -then do it in practice.
If the answer is NO -then don't do it in practice.

Interest in playing soccer needs to be developed. You may be faced with players who are not interested in playing our wonderful game and you must adjust accordingly. Give appropriate attention to the disinterested players but not at the expense of the rest of the team. Then, make the practices so much FUN that the disinterested player may want to join. Remember that when you are working with your players you must be as helpful, understanding and patient as you are with your own children when they are learning other skills in life.

Organize the practice session in such a manner that it becomes apparent it is a rehearsal for the game day routine *. This can only be accomplished through a consistent, sequential routine* that allows your players to learn what is expected. It is wise to avoid -- variety. If they are introduced to something different at each practice session this will lead to some confusion and confusion can lead to disinterest.

No Lapse. No Lines. No Lectures! Running around the field may be considered punishment. They already know 'how to' stand in a line. It is a fact that their attention span is less than 15 seconds. You must create a practice environment that minimizes listening/lecture time and maximizes touches with the ball and playing time. In other words, allow them to play the game of soccer which forces them to make decisions and learn on their own. Allow them to experiment and fail their way to success!

You may want to put into A C T I O N the FUNdamental Soccer *Routine:

Step 1. BEGIN PRACTICE
(Give a Demonstration/Explanation of your Theme)

Step 2. WARM-UP (Play a Fun game related to Theme & Stretch)

Step 3. ONE + ONE (Cooperative Play-Focusing on Learning the Theme)

Step 4. ONE vs. ONE (Competitive Play-Testing the Theme)

Step 5. PRACTICE -- HALF-TIME ROUTINE
(2nd Demonstration/Explanation of the Theme- If necessary)

Step 6. PLAY -- TEACHING GAME(s)
(Cooperative or Competitive 'Small Sided' Games -Focused on Learning the Theme)

Step 7. PLAY -- FREE GAME
(Competitive 'Full Team' Game or Scrimmage-Testing to see Progress!)

Step 8. COOL-DOWN (Stretch)

Step 9. END PRACTICE (Review & Compliment)

Coach: During Practice -- Observe and Help - but, only when necessary!

Your next personal ACTION should be to attend a soccer-coaching course which will further develop your confidence and youth coaching abilities!

If we can be of further assistance to you - Please let us know!!!

Your FUNdamental Soccer Coach,
Karl Dewazien