Working with youth can be a difficult process sometimes. Because of the variety of personalities and learning styles each child has, you may encounter tension or indifference when working together. First of all remember that you are a role model for each member of your team. They will take their cues from you and your behavior. Begin by setting goals that show sportsmanship, integrity, fun, and positive self image for you and the team.

Each child has a different way of learning, so therefore you must have multiple ways of teaching. Some children are auditory learners, some are visual, some are kinesthetic, and some are intellectual. No matter what their learning style, your approach to coaching should include methods that address differnet styles of learning. There is a place for all of these styles in your coaching ability and form.

Before the season begins:

Complete all the forms and information your organization wants from you. Setting a good example for your players and assistants by following the guidelines will show them you have pride in what you're doing, and respect for their time and efforts.

Read and understand the Rules of the Sport you're coaching and of the organization you're working with. Understanding the rules of the game and the organization will help you avoid conflicts with other coaches, officials and players throughout the season. You can also refer to them when you have a question or need clarification from an official or coach. Knowing the rules will help you communicate more clearly with others.

Team Practices:

Have a plan for each practice. Write down a set of goals, skills or plays you want to work on at each practice. Having a developed plan for each practice will show organization and discipline on your part. This will make all your practice time effective and useful.

Model and develop rules of conduct for your team and assistants that align themseleves with the game rules, and organizations rules. You can discuss this as a group and share in the creation of your team rules, as well as take time to teach them the rules of the sport so they can understand more clearly what is expected of them.

Watch and observe your practices and look for ways you can help your team improve. Be constructive and positive with your feedback. Remember that children take things literally. Be specific and kind in your words and show them that you're their to be their guide.

Make sure you have a complete team roster with players information so you can contact them or their parents in case of an emergency. Know their parents, and make sure you have a way to contact them in case of an emergency if they are not present.

Before your first game, make sure you have encouraged your team with positive feedback. Make sure they have uniforms, and understand the rules for dress by the organization. Again communicating expectations early encourages discipline and respect among the team.

Game Days:

On game day arrive early before your team shows up. Have your playbook, extra uniforms, practice balls, notepad, and completed roster with you and make sure you fill out the score book or let the score keeper input the information for you. Make sure you inform them of absent or injured players. Greet your opposing coach with a handshake, and the officials. Remember you're here for the benefit of the children, show them what sportsmanship is all about. Encourage them to do their best and have fun.

Rotate your players, and have a set rotation for your team. Make sure each member gets a chance to play and be active. Remember this isn't about winning as it is an educational experience for the children to learn how to play and work as a team.

At the end of the game shake hands with the opposing coach and team players and encourage your team to do the same. You all worked hard to prepare for the game day, and this is a way of congratulating each other for all the preparation time spent.

Tell your team what good things you saw them do during the game. Save any constructive or corrective responses for your next practice, let them leave with a positive thought in their head whether you won or lost the game.

Go home and relax after your game. Reflect on what worked and what needs improvement. Make a list and alter your practice plan to include these ideas. Share them with your assistants and get feedback, they might have noticed something you missed.

End of the Season:

Make sure you have collected all your uniforms and materials from the team.

Have a closing social gathering to bring a close to the season and recognize each team member for their contributions this season.

Reflect on your coaching year, and think about what you want to accomplish next year. Write down some goals and think about how to encourage others to volunteer to work with youth.

Talk with your athletic director about concerns or suggestions you have to help make the experience for the children better. Or send a letter to the organization with your ideas or as a thank you for all the hard work they do. Make sure you are positive and constructive with your comments. This will be received better by them, with more consideration than a letter telling them how angry or upset you are.

We hope this simple guide will help you begin your journey as a coach. If you have suggestions on what to add to this list please submit them to us in writing. We are committed to making this a great experience for the players, coaches and staff.

GOOD LUCK