There are few things as rewarding as showing young kids how to play soccer and seeing them progress as their skills and techniques improve. Their sheer enjoyment of kicking a ball around and scoring goals for their team and their supporters can provide them with a real thrill.
Of course, before you decide that this is what you really want to do with either your free time or as a full-time or part-time career, however, there are a few points that you’ll have to take into account.
1. Having the right skills and qualifications
To put yourself forward as a sports coach, you really need to have the right qualifications. This will mean that you’re aware of the human body, how it works, and the injuries that can occur as the result of incorrect exercises or techniques. You’ll also have to have an idea of the rules of the game, as well as strategies and tactics that can be used.
You should also have the correct skills to teach children and young adults, which often isn’t for the faint-hearted. Initially, a lot of the time that you spend with your students won’t be spent playing against other teams but will be honing their skills and preparing them for the start of practice play.
2. Finding somewhere to host your club
With this in mind, you’re going to have to make sure that you have a location where this can take place. Although soccer is played outside in a variety of different weather conditions, you may want to make sure that you also have an inside location available as well. This is due to the fact that some kids may not want to attend in bad weather if all practice sessions are held outdoors, or their parents may not be so keen on them taking part due to the fear of them getting sick from being out in the rain.
You may also have to keep in mind that younger kids or youths may require comfort facilities while they’re with you, so ensuring that there’s a restroom for them to use onsite would be a good idea.
3. Getting the equipment you need
As you’ll be in charge, it’ll be your responsibility to ensure that all the right equipment is available and ready for use. This equipment will need to include tabards (so you can make two teams out of your attendees), enough soccer balls of the right size and weight, as well as a strong and bespoke soccer bag to keep the balls tidy while in transport, storage, and on location when not in use. You’ll also want some cones or markers to provide your students with obstacles to dribble around or shoot between.
Final thoughts
So, before you start advertising your new soccer club, you should make sure that you have the correct qualifications, knowledge, and skills to be able to do it competently. Teaching kids and young adults can be immensely rewarding but also very hard work. You’ll need to ensure that you have everything that you need to make the time spent worthwhile. This includes knowing the game and having all the equipment to ensure that those who are attending your club make full use of the time and aren’t left standing around waiting due to a lack of vital items.
