Youth football coaches introduce kids to their first organized football experience. The approach to coaching the players affects their opinion of the sport, making the coaching position an influential one. The method you use to teach the fundamentals of the sport and motivate the players can improve self-esteem and build a foundation for football talent.
Understand League Rules
The youth football league rules establish the baseline for play and conduct. As the coach, you need an understanding of how the game is played in that league to prepare your players. Factors that include tackling, contact rules, positions played, substitutions, play restrictions and the length of the games affect how you plan your practices and teach the players.
Teaching Fundamentals
At the youth level, kids learn the fundamentals of football. Teaching the kids defensive and offensive positions gives them a well-rounded introduction to the sport and helps them decide which they prefer. No matter what the kids play, proper execution is key for effective play and reduction of injuries. Demonstrate a new skill or play the proper way to give the kids a visual display. Give the kids a chance to practice the skill independently as you supervise and assist to help kids get the proper form. You need expectations for the players, but you also don't want to run a boot camp with lots of screaming or punishments for mistakes.
Drill Games
Football drills give the players repeated practice at the basics of the sport. After repeating the same drills over and over, the kids are likely to get bored. When possible, incorporate the football drills into a game to make the practice more interesting. For example, play a relay game with players representing defenders at specific points along the field. The runner carries the ball and dodges the defenders as he runs the designated distance. He passes the ball to his teammate who does the same thing. Switch so the defenders get a chance to run the relay. The team with the fastest time wins.
Safety
The safety of the young players is essential when coaching. Keep in mind the age and abilities of the kids. Avoid pushing them too far or asking them to do things that could potentially cause injury. If the league allows contact, all players need properly fitted safety equipment, including a helmet, mouth guard, pads and shoes. During hot weather, keep the kids hydrated and give them breaks. If the temperature becomes dangerously high, cut practice short or do conditioning drills indoors.
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