WCCYSL Coach Blog

I recently reffed a U12 girls recreational game. The “home” team was actually from our neighboring league, ACC. The coaches were new, and didn’t have a game card, but they were friendly and willing to learn. The game got underway, and before too long they were down 1-0, then 2-0, and by halftime, the score was 5-0. I heard the winning coach tell his girls to back off, so I knew I didn’t have to remind him of our league policy about goal-differentials. During the whole first half, I didn’t hear a single negative comment from the new coach to his players. In fact, I heard quite the opposite! He, and his assistant, were constantly encouraging, hopeful, praising what they got right, and directing them kindly with suggestions for improvements; “Good job!, Next time kick it to the side instead of into the middle.” The parents followed right along with the coaches (as they usually will, in my experience and observation.) The coaches and parents were sincere in their cheering, too. They were smiling, and supportive from the beginning to the 6-0 end. Their girls NEVER gave up - even that far behind, they just kept going!

You know what? I actually think the losing team had more fun.

Seriously.

The winning team stopped seeming to have much fun when they were throttled back. It probably would have been more fun to have removed several players from the field. Then they could still have played soccer, but maybe it would evened the teams a bit. That’s a decision for the coach to make.

My point is - the losing team fed off the sideline support. They continued having fun because their coaches and parents were clearly not tied up in the scoring, the winning, the mistakes, or even the reffing. They were there to support their kids learning and playing the game, the best they could - and having fun.

I know that’s a simple message that we’ve all heard. Consider taking it to heart, if you haven’t already. Your kids will reap the benefits.

This video from hockey coach Don Lucia has such a fantastic message - and it’s just as applicable to soccer! Please, do watch it. This is great for coaches, parents, and players.

“It’s not ‘win at all costs’, it has to be ‘FUN at all costs’”

You said it Don!

Welcome to the Coach Blog.

I’m Kimberly (and I’ll be your flight attendant for the evening.) Actually, for the time being, I’ll probably be the only coach blogging, but I hope to have more, soon! If you’re a coach, and would like to contribute to the blog, do let me know!

First, a bit about me.

I’m a new coach this season, but I’m not new to soccer. My family has been involved in the league since my son was 8 - and he’s about to turn 14. My husband and I are both on our Board of Directors. All three of my family ref, as well. Oh, and because we were short coaches this year, my husband and I are coaching a U8 girls team (go Princess Panthers!) and my son is helping out a U12 boys team (go Warriors!) So … yeah, not so new on the soccer front!

We’re really enjoying coaching this year, and are learning lots. One thing that is good for a laugh is just how different 6 and 7 year old girls are from little boys! There’s an awful lot of “IIIIIII wanted to kick the ball!” and then pouty lower lips, with little girls! I don’t recall that with the boys when David was younger - maybe I’ve blocked it out!

So… I’ll be posting more later. For now - happy coaching!