At the Jamboree
Meet your team and the parents.
We will rotate through a series of drills that will allow all the kids on your team to be exposed to most of the skills needed for the games.
At the Games
Come to the Jamboree and all games. Try to be at the game field 10 minutes before the game starts. Find a substitute if you can’t be there.
You will need to get the nets and balls if you are the first game at that field for the day (and return the balls and nets if you are the last game of the day).
Talk with your team’s manager about rotations. The Team Manager will have rotation charts and is responsible for having players ready to rotate in.
Games consist of eight 5-minute periods. The Managers keep track and will call “time.”
It usually works best (and makey you less tired) if you split the field with the other coaches. One with the forwards, one with the defense, one set of coaches on the left, one on the right.
The coaches are also the referees. Don't argue.
You will have many things to laugh about.
Games will be played in the rain unless it is a downpour and/or lightning (use your discretion). We will not be able to play at Fuller Park in the rain. Decisions to cancel games due to weather are made by the managers & coaches of each team together. Agree on a system with Manager to call team roster if a game is cancelled. The season is pretty short, so it would be nice to get in all the games. If you would like to schedule a make up game, Tom Kremer, 987.2452 to find out when a field is available.
Things to Teach the Kids
Good Sportsmanship – Win or lose, keep a positive attitude and have FUN! We do not keep standings and don't encourage score keeping.
Teamwork – Don't take the ball from kids in the same color uniform! This can be tough for the young ones.
Positioning – Forwards to the front, defenders to the back. You'll need to sort them out after each stoppage.
Basic Rules - Explain and reinforce the rules for goal keeping, throw-ins, kick-offs, corner kicks and goal kicks. If you need help with this yourself feel free to ask one of the more experienced coaches or go to some of the links in the Other Resources section.
Keep the Games Fun and Fair
Sometimes you will need to ensure that strong players on your team do not dominate the entire game. This may include moving someone back to defense, asking them to play in just half the field, or asking them to see how far they can pass the ball or help out their teammates in other ways.
You should set a good example by praising all players, regardless of what team they are on, when they make good plays or make good efforts.
Practices
It is considered a breach of etiquette to have any formal practices at this level of play.