This page provides a general overview for coaches of U8 teams. Please refer to the RSC U8 Coaches Guide for more information.
Coaching Requirement:
U8 coaches are required to have an F coaching license.
Some Facts:
- No matter what age or skill – we are teaching children to play a game!
- Children like to be active; action is one of the main attractions to soccer.
- Children develop at different rates physically, mentally and emotionally.
- Every child must be treated equally and with respect.
- Expect good manners from all children.
- Let the children enjoy the game.
- Leave your natural competitiveness elsewhere.
Your Players need you to:
- Look for aspects to praise
- Be helpful, encouraging and supportive
- Emphasize fun, development not winning
- Give a clear idea of the behavior you expect – in practice and games
- Praise good behavior quickly
- Remember making mistakes is a necessary part of learning
- Be patient and have realistic expectations
You need to be:
- Positive
- Patient
- Prepared
- Proactive
Basic Skill Development
(Have realistic expectations. Set attainable goals.)
Underlying objective is to develop both feet.
- Ball control/dribbling
- Kicking (initially teach the in step kick)
- Passing
Trapping/First touch
Throw ins
Corner Kicks
Basic Defensive play
Practice
Be prepared. Plan your practice. Keep it simple.
Progression … individual skill – group work – team
The Practice Routine
Before each practice establish a theme (ex: focus on a particular skill or aspect of the game)
Step 1.
Begin Practice (stretch, socialize & introduce theme) 5 min.
Socialize: allow each player to participate.
Step 2.
Basic skill work/Fun Games focused on developing skills/1vs1 20 min.
Teaching involves: hearing, seeing, visualizing, verbalizing (saying buzz words out load), Speaking and Doing.
Step 3.
Small Sided games (ex: 2vs2, 3vs3) 20 min.
Step 4. Team Scrimmage/Game Prep. 10 min.
Step 5. Cool down/stretch/ End practice (review and complement) 5 min
SEE ALSO: U8 General Information | U8 Parents Guide | U8 Referee Overview
