Soccer games can be thrilling but even in the most tedious matches there will always be plenty of action for a coach to analyse. However, are you analysing correctly or just simply watching the match? Do you write down on paper, or mentally, what you observe on the field? Do you watch out for areas in need of some work, either with individual players or as a team? By analysing correctly each game, you will come up with many topics to use a basis for future coaching sessions. Read The Rest……

Many coaches ask how best to choose a goalkeeper. Usually what happens is you find yourself either with several volunteers or none at all! However, choosing a player who is suited to the role is essential for a successful season.

A common error is automatically placing the biggest player in goal, just because his size means he can cover more goal area. There may be more competent players able to perform the role, regardless of how tall or well built they are. Height should of course be taken into account but there are other areas to consider as well. Read The Rest……

What is meant by the term ‘a natural leader?’ Do we mean a player who shows the way by example? Is it a person who inspires the other players through his communication and team talks? Or perhaps a much needed authority on the field, someone who is available to all other players when needed, a general…?

This list is endless. All the traits and characteristics above are to be found in a good soccer team captain. He should have just as much influence over his team off the pitch as he does on it. Read The Rest……

In this, the fifth and final part of the series, we look at how to tell the trialists whether they have been chosen to join your squad or not.

Once the time arrives to make the selection for the squad, emotions will be running high for you, your team hopefuls and their parents.

Choosing new members for your squad is a time of mixed emotions for a soccer coach. It is such a rewarding experience, seeing the expressions of joy when trialists are told they have been selected for the team. Read The Rest……

In part three of this series on holding an effective soccer trial, we outlined how it’s necessary to assess the skills and technical ability of the trialists consistently. However, other considerations need to be taken into account as well.

Four other key elements are vital when choosing new players for your squad. These factors will ensure new members integrate well within the team and are a positive addition. Read The Rest……

One of the biggest mistakes trainers are guilty of when holding a soccer trial is attempting to coach the players who are trying out. The main purpose of having a trial is to assess the skill and technical ability of the players.

This doesn’t mean you just sit back and watch. Offering occasional feedback when it’s appropriate shows the trialists you have an interest in their growth and development. The added advantage of giving feedback is it allows you to observe the players reactions to instructions, feedback and constructive criticism. Read The Rest……

Holding a well-organised football trial will ensure you get the most out of it, particularly important if your time is limited.

When assessing a player, check out his technical ability as well as his game play. To enable a review of all these elements, divide the trial into two separate parts.

The first section involves some drill-based ability and the reason for this is twofold. Read The Rest……

Having the ability to organise and run a well-managed and coordinated soccer trial will speak volumes as regards your football coaching capabilities. More significantly, it will enable you to get the best out of the little time that is available and will help you considerably in making the correct choice of players.

How can you ensure you get the best out of the soccer trialists? Read The Rest……

It is vital to get as much benefit as possible out of each coaching session. To assess performance levels and improvement, it’s necessary to observe your squad playing both as a team and individually, noting technical expertise and tactical skills. To ensure you get the full benefit out of observing your players, follow the four tips listed below. Read The Rest……

Have you ever seen young soccer players getting ready for a match and noticed how confident they are? How they’re ready to win that match, and overcome anything that their opponents might bring to the game? The way that players regard soccer as a sport and as a game has a huge impact on their attitude, and as a result, on their performance. Can you affect and increase confidence in your players? You bet! You can start by learning how to spot indicators that tell you which players are displaying healthy confidence.

Why is this important? A successful team starts with confident players who can cope with the challenges of the game.
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