Youth Have Right to Trained Coaches

Recently, the Aspen Institute introduced their Children’s Bill of Rights in Sports. I’ve been following the Aspen Institute’s Project Play Initiative for a while now. The Bill of Rights for Youth Sports is a fantastic initiative that is endorsed by dozens of sports luminaries and organizations. While #4 resonates with me because I believe thereContinue reading “Youth Have Right to Trained Coaches”

Youth Sports Practice Planning – Don’t Overreach

During my coaching clinics, I spend a good deal of time on practice planning.  Having effective practices – those that contribute to making the players better – doesn’t happen by accident.  It requires planning.  Coaches should have goals for their practices.  Initial practice sessions should focus on the fundamentals.  You never know when you willContinue reading “Youth Sports Practice Planning – Don’t Overreach”

Working with Youth Sports Parents – It’s All About Expectation Management

One of the first things a youth recreational sports coach needs to do each season is make contact with the parents of the children on their team. In addition to easing parents’ anxiety, this is a great opportunity for the coach to set expectations for the season. Doing so can go a long way towardsContinue reading “Working with Youth Sports Parents – It’s All About Expectation Management”