In Coach Training we usually end the sessions with a slide that reads 'The best teacher of the game is the game itself, let them play.'
It can be tough as Coaches and Parents to not direct the kids. Not to point out everything we see or direct them to do what we think they should do. It is mostly well meaning but we take away one of the benefits of youth sports and child development. While Kids need guidance, they also need to experiment, and sometimes failing at a task is a better teacher than just being told what to do the whole time.
Whether you're a coach or parent, encourage your players to get creative on the field. If it works, congratulate them. If it didn't work, then when the time is right (later) ask what they saw and what they might do different. Even some of the younger kids will get excited about telling you why they did something or what they saw. At those moments the kids take ownership of their game, and that is as exciting as great goals and stops.
This is a game for the kids, let them play!
Enjoy Match Week 3!
Eric Dilger
Regional Commissioner