[tag-tec]Developing youth soccer players[/tag-tec]- This is a goal or aim of every youth soccer coach.  However, there is more to it than just improving and developing their on field skills.

It is as much about developing them and guiding them through a period in their life, which can be difficult at times. As a coach you are a role model, someone seen as being in authority and someone that can be trusted.  It all goes with the territory of [tag-tec]coaching youth soccer[/tag-tec].   

When we talk about [tag-tec]developing youth soccer players[/tag-tec] we often forget about the bigger picture and just concentrate on their technical skills or physical abilities and forget about the mental and emotional side of [tag-tec]developing youth soccer players[/tag-tec] into adult soccer players.

I have listed a number of points below, which may be handy to focus on throughout the year.  It is a lot about setting standards as a coach and providing the right environment.  This applies from very junior age groups through to older youth age groups.  If you are new to [tag-tec]coaching youth soccer[/tag-tec], these points may help and if you are more experienced at  coaching youth players, these points may help reinforce what you already know and do.

Some of these points might seem very basic, however they can be easily forgotten in the heat of soccer training or a soccer game.

• Encourage sportsmanship – In fact ensure all  players demonstrate it!
• Be punctual and professional at all times 
• Maintain discipline
• Be a role model for children e.g. never swear or abuse
• Be positive and encourage the children
• If things go wrong during a soccer training session:
  • Show
  • Practice
  • Re-start
  • Don’t criticise
• Attend soccer coaching courses and read to increase and update your knowledge of the game and where appropriate become qualified.
• Listen

Finally, enjoy your role coaching youth soccer and the kids will enjoy the game. I hope some of these points help and assist in developing your youth soccer players into great adult soccer players.  Keep them handy and revisit them a couple of times throughout the year.