The official duties of a soccer team captain might seem trivial. In professional soccer leagues, the official duties are limited to the coin toss to determine which ends the teams attack from and who takes the first shot in a shoot-out. Although a captain often take it upon himself to approach the referee on behalf of the team, the rules actually limit the captain to responding if the referee approaches him. Informally, however, the captain is a singularly important figure, a leader of his team who sets the tone for the squad and inspires it with his example on and off the field.
The Link
A captain is the link between the coach and the other players. This can be a delicate balancing act for the captain and the coach. An ideal coach gives the captain enough respect to allow him to freely communicate the wishes and the suggestions of the team to the coaches, and the ideal captain gives the coach enough respect so as not to undermine his authority with his fellow players. If the balance is disturbed, either authoritarianism on the part of the coach and/or mutiny on the part of the players may follow.
People Skills
A good captain has the ability to inspire and encourage his teammates, especially when the team is struggling. He knows whether to metaphorically kick a teammate in the butt and when to pat the back of a teammate who needs a boost. The captain also is responsible for quelling disputes among teammates and keeping every member of the team on the same page. A good captain has high levels of both emotional and social intelligence.
Role Model
A captain is not necessarily the best player on a team. A good captain is a player who leads by example and is a role model on and off the field. To be a good role model, captains must work at least as hard as anyone in practice and in games. They should strive to better themselves, fellow team members and the team as a whole. They should rise to the occasion when times are difficult. The should respect the officials, the opposition and the game. They should win and lose with grace. Captains often represent their team in the community, at sports, social or educational events. They might visit a local children's hospital or a group of business leaders.
Considerations
In youth soccer leagues for young kids, the Keelby United Football Club suggests that each player on the team take turns in the role of captain. By alternating the job, every player assumes both the responsibility and the enjoyment of the position. Getting to lead your team is a treat for kids that might never or rarely get the chance to do so, and it also is a great learning experience.
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