As many teams begin their pre-season training, Kudda wants to take a moment to remind everyone of some of the ways they can become stronger coaches. Perhaps last Spring, the players just didn’t respond as well as you had hoped, maybe they seemed to not care and didn’t work hard during practice. Perhaps you had some problems w/ parents or with other coaches?
Kudda recommends that coaches take a few moments to check out some of our “Coach’s Wisdom” on issues that take place “outside of the lines”. What are some actions that you can take right now and for the rest of the season that will help you become a better role model for your players? What are some strategies that will help you maintain a positive environment for your players and parents? What are some other issues that you will need to address early before they fester into larger problems?
Kudda suggests that you refresh yourself by watching these selected clinics where our Kudda coaches share their thoughts.
For keys to better coaching
The_Keys_to_Good_Coaching
Adjusting_Your_Coaching_Style_for_Different_Age_Groups

For dealing w/ Parents
Dealing_with_Parents
Coach_Mac_on_Dealing_with_Parents

Legal Issues and Liability
Insurance_Issues_for_Coaches_of_Youth_Sports

Hints to getting off to a solid start
1) Communicate w/ parents and be pro-active. Have a parents’ mtg and explain logistics and your expectations. Possibly have them sign a “contract” where they agree to meet your expectations.
2) Always have a detailed practice plan that includes some sort of competition and fun. Not just drills
3) Talk w/ each kid at least 1x per week. Depending on the size of the team and how many practices/week you have…If you talk w/ 1-2 players at the beginning, 1-2 players in the middle during a break and after 1-2 practice. During these talks, explain what they are doing right, where you see them playing, what their role is and 1-2 specific areas, skills that you would like to see improvement. Make sure you also give them the ways to improve. For example, don’t tell them they need to shoot better, w/out providing time and some drills to improve.
4) Keep it Fun
5) Keep your sense of humor