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As a parent of a youth competitive soccer player, finding a coach that is a good fit for your player is critical to their development and enjoyment of the game.
When considering a potential new coach it’s important to have a clear understanding of their approach, experience, qualifications, and expectations. In today’s post we've compiled a list of questions that may serve as a good starting point when getting to know your player’s potential new coach.
What is your coaching philosophy?
This question will help you understand the coach's approach to the game and how they plan to develop players both on and off the field. While there is no “one size fits all” development style, you want to ensure the coaches style aligns with your expectations and values.
What is your experience coaching at this age level?
Discussing the coach's experience and background will give you an idea of how deeply they understand the game and how to deal with specific developmental needs of youth players.
What coaching qualifications or licenses do you have?
While having a laundry list of licenses or qualifications does not necessarily make a coach great, it is a good indicator that she takes the role seriously, committed to expanding her ability as a coach, and ensures she at least has a solid theoretical foundation of the skills required to be a good coach.
How do you communicate with parents and players?
Understanding and observing the coach's communication style will help you gauge how well they will keep you informed and involved in your child's progress, and how effectively they will be able to communicate their coaching instruction to your player.
How do you handle playing time and positions?
Knowing the coach's approach to playing time and positions will give you an idea of how they plan to manage the team and how they will determine who plays in what positions. Note, this is not guidance to ask a coach for guarantees about your child’s playing time. At the competitive level, team management decisions are made based on a variety of dynamic factors to further the development of each player as well as the team.
How do you handle discipline and behavior issues?
Knowing the coach's approach to discipline and behavior will give you an idea of how they plan to maintain a positive and productive team culture.
Can you provide references from other parents or players you have coached? This will give you an opportunity to get feedback from other parents and players who have experience with the coach.
How do you plan to evaluate players and provide feedback to both players and parents?
Competitive coaches should have a process by which they provide evaluations to players and establish an individual development plan. Ensuring a potential coach has this framework in place and understanding how he plans to provide feedback to you and your player will help you to understand how your child’s progress will be tracked.
What are your expectations for the team and players?
Understanding the coach's expectations will give you an idea of what they hope to accomplish with the team and how they plan to measure success. You’ll want to ensure these expectations are aligned with you and your players.
While this list isn't exhaustive and finding the right soccer coach is a very personal choice, hopefully you will be better equipped to make an informed decision about a potential new coach. Remember, the right coach will not only help your child improve their soccer skills, but also help them develop a love for the game and a positive attitude towards competition.
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