As junior football/soccer coaches, we should be aiming to make each practice the favourite part of our players’ week. This ambition stretches beyond merely offering a respite from the routine of school. It’s about crafting moments that eclipse the ordinary, transforming practice into a peak experience that players eagerly anticipate each week.
Consider the essence of a child’s day—school, homework, chores, annoying siblings—the routine is predictable, often monotonous. Yet, within this framework lies our opportunity: to elevate football practice into an extraordinary escape. But how do we transform this vision into reality? The secret lies in challenging our mindset as coaches.
Engagement Over Routine
First, scrutinize the activities you’ve planned. Ask yourself, “Are these drills not only sharpening skills but also igniting excitement?” The stark comparison between laps around the oval and a goal-shooting competition encapsulates this philosophy. One is a chore; the other, a game. Every drill, every activity should pulse with fun and engagement, pushing the boundaries of joy in sport.
Introduce Gratitude
Amidst the fervor of competition and improvement, a simple reminder of their fortune to play can elevate the spirits of young athletes. Highlighting the privilege of playing football with friends, free from the obligations of homework or family chores, can imbue a sense of gratitude and joy in their participation. This perspective shift not only enhances their appreciation for the game but also for the community and team spirit it fosters.
Reflecting on Attendance
A dip in attendance can be a signal, a moment for self-reflection as a coach. It beckons the question, “Are my sessions the pinnacle of my players’ week?” If practice feels more like an obligation than a cherished opportunity, it’s time for introspection and adjustment. One of my favourite quotes “People don’t have time issues, they have priority issues”, rings especially true here. Our task is to ensure football practice is a priority not because it’s scheduled, but because it’s irresistible.
Prioritizing Joy and Connection
The key to making practice the best part of the week is focusing on joy and teamwork. Our goal is to make every session fun and engaging, reinforcing players’ love for football and their bond with teammates. When they come to practice, we want them to be excited, ready for what might just be the most enjoyable part of their week.
As coaches, it’s our job to not only improve their skills but to also ignite their passion for the game. By making every practice enjoyable and showing them the value of playing together, we help make football a high point of their week. It’s up to us to keep things creative and fun, ensuring practice is something they always look forward to.
