Playing youth sports provides kids with the opportunity to learn about themselves – their strengths and weaknesses, how they interact with others, how they respond to adversity, etc.  The old saying that “sport builds character” is really a misnomer; sport reveals character.  The way kids play the game helps them to learn something about themselves – and their teammates as well.  It helps kids understand their flaws while it sheds light on their potential.

Children need – and crave – the freedom to discover how to solve problems.  This is especially true in sports, where young players have to find answers in a way that suits their own style.  It is so important that coaches are not too restrictive in their methods (e.g., “It’s my way or the highway”).  Game intelligence can not be fostered unless a player has the freedom to develop his own awareness and understanding – and not merely be provided answers to every possible problem by the coach.

“I thank my father for all the coaching he did NOT give me.”  - Ferenc Puskas

Young players intuitively learn how to use their strengths and hide their weaknesses.  Coaches need to guide them so that they see for themselves what does and doesn’t work in certain situations.  Each player is different – and we want that individuality to shine through (we don’t want robots!).

It is important to note that coaches – and parents – and players (!) understand that this discovery is a learning process.  It takes time and young players should not see their flaws as limitations or barriers to their improvement.

ROOM FOR EVERYONE

One of the great things about soccer is the fact that it can be played in different ways; players can use their own unique competencies to play to their strengths, regardless of size or speed.  A simple comparison could be found with Manchester United’s midfield during the late 90s.  On one side of midfield, Ryan Giggs knew how to use his pace and trickery to get behind defenses; while on the other side David Beckham – who did not have the same speed, had the ball played to his feet where he could be deadly with pinpoint crosses.

Giggs:

Beckham:

Essentially the same position played by two different kinds of players – they both learned over time how to make the most of their talents.  Furthermore, their teammates understood how to play with them as well.

Life is a journey; none of us are the finished products.  Coaches should strive to encourage their young players and guide them through the process of self-discovery.  It will serve them on the field and in life.