Koach Karl: I did not misunderstand - I just think it is a privilege to take the so called rejects and teach them to 'love to play soccer' something these winning coaches do not do - we are finding over 70% of the players quit between 10 and 14 - because some coach 'won' lots of games - but never taught the kids to love to play - and that is what I would like for you to focus on - teach them to love to play and stay in the game - not just play so that they can win.

FUNdamental Coach: Then the parents think I am not a good coach...

Koach Karl: Wrong focus you should not judge your coaching ability according to the parents. If you lose -its because - and you've given me the reasons - but, if you 'win' then its' because their kids are making you look good - try to please the parents and you will always get the short end.

FUNdamental Coach: Why is it that my team always loses?

Koach Karl: Because they are not as good as the opponent - they need to work harder - this year and then watch out what will happen next year.

FUNdamental Coach: It is because I am never given older players.

Koach Karl: I am not sure what age has to do with - working hard to improve - and over time become better than others? The goal should not be to just win today - but, be a winner in the future - high school, college or pro -if that is their goal (not their parents' goal).

FUNdamental Coach: I don't mean it as something bad, just it hurts the players.

Koach Karl: If they are playing that should be reward in itself - some kids can't play sports - now that is painful. These children should thank the good Lord for giving them the tools to put on a uniform -be able to run -etc....

FUNdamental Coach: My son is always losing and he is frustrated about it.

Koach Karl: Then he should work on personal improvement - he will NOT always be on this particular team -but, his skills will always be part of him.

FUNdamental Coach: He just wants to play for a winning team.

Koach Karl: Wouldn't we all? And what if everyone played on a winning team -then we would have no losing teams - therefore, we would have no competition. If he wants to be a competitor then he should be working on becoming the best he can be -and give up this dream of playing - for only winning dreams - this is not reality!

FUNdamental Coach: His dream is to play in collage and pro.

Koach Karl: Great dream to have - now he needs to work very hard to make his dreams come true.

FUNdamental Coach: He is gifted in the game .

Koach Karl: So are hundreds of thousands of kids across the country - but, very few work hard to reach the level that they would like to be at college or pro level.

FUNdamental Coach: Many coaches have told me he has what it takes. He just needs the right teaching. He was watched by collage coach in Ga. and he told me if he could get with a really good coach he would like to see him in a few years, so I would like to help him. That is why I ask you. Please do not think I am putting down the children because I am not.

Koach Karl: I have heard many adults build parents and children's dreams by making statements like your college coach - but, where are they when the players need to work hard on their basic skills? Coaches do not make better players - It is the individual who can make himself a better player - That is why I said in an earlier email - he should be playing as much soccer as possible - and not just at practice!

FUNdamental Coach: I was just asking for help in how to go about teaching them the right way.

Koach Karl: And I am trying to guide you in the 'right' direction.

FUNdamental Coach: I seem to lose them part way through practice.

Koach Karl: I sent you the suggested Practice Session - where they play - either 1vs.1, small sided games, or in a scrimmage - if they are PLAYING then you will not lose them - and that is a promise!!!

FUNdamental Coach: I am not sure about placement on the field in running the game. helping them learn game strategies and game players.

Koach Karl: Let's get you to feel comfortable in running a practice session - where you do not lose them - then we can work on this advanced stuff. They need the basics, fitness and 'loving to come to practice' before we want to work on positioning, etc.

FUNdamental Coach: Again thanks.

Koach Karl: You are very welcome - and thanks for trying to self-improve so that the children will benefit.

Your FUNdamental,
Koach Karl

FUNdamental Reader: Have any questions to ask Koach Karl? Send them to us an we will answer your questions as soon as possible...!