A great player is not always a great coach
Many youth teams are coached by someone who was a strong player a few years ago. Playing well and coaching well are two different skills. A good coach knows how kids learn, plans every practice with a purpose, and is held to a standard by the club they coach for.
Coach Victor has spent 25+ years coaching players and training coaches. Here is what he looks for, whether you are a parent or you run a club.
"Playing teaches you the game. Coaching teaches you how to teach it."
5 questions to ask about your child's coach
Is there a plan? Every practice should have one clear focus, not a random set of drills.
Is the ball moving? Players should be touching the ball most of practice, not waiting in lines.
Does the coach teach decisions? Games are about choices. Good coaches build them into every activity.
Does feedback come with a fix? "Do better" is not coaching. "Open your hips to the field" is.
Is the coach still learning? Ask what training your coach has had, and what standards the club holds coaches to.
For parents
If you answered "not sure" more than once, your player may need more than team practice. Private and small group sessions with Coach Victor are planned around your child's game.
For clubs and directors
Coaching is a skill that can be taught. If your club relies on young coaches who are great players but new to teaching, we can help. Coach Victor works with clubs to set coaching standards, train coaches on the field, and build practice plans that develop players at every age.
Coaching your child's team?
Our Parent Coaching courses teach you how to plan a practice, keep kids moving and make it fun. See Parent Coaching
Train at home this winter
Drill, warm-up and conditioning packs from Coach Victor, starting at $7. Get the training downloads
See you on the field,Coach Victor and My Local Soccer
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