COACH

(GAME DAY)

PRE-GAME

RESPONSIBILITIES:

             -Arrive early

             -Check weather and field conditions

               …Establish team sideline area

             -Greet team manager

      …Check equipment and paperwork…Game card, Player passes, etc.

             -Greet players!

              …Check equipment & injuries

      …Pre-name team captains (each player should get that honor)

      …Have your starting line-up ready and substitutions scheduled

      …Rotate all players through the goalkeeper position during the season

             -Greet opposing coach

             -Greet game officials

      …Prepare players for equipment check, players pass check and coin toss

            -Prepare players Mentally and Physically.

             Mental...

             -Give specific game instructions to: Individuals, Groups and Team

             -Motivate…Review game assignments

            Physical...    

            -Assign light running

            -Assign stretching without bouncing

            -Provide gradual build-up toward game action

            -Team cheer

            -Become an observer!

             -Look for strengths and weaknesses in your team

             -Look for strengths and weaknesses in the opposing team

             -Take notes of the strengths and weaknesses

             -Keep accurate time of everyone playing 50% of the game

             -Prepare to make adjustments at half-time

            -Gather the team in a defined, secluded area.

             -Allow players to relax...and seek feedback

             -Encourage players to replenish liquid.

             -Check for injuries.

             -Give specific adjustments to:

             a. Individuals          

             b. Group          

             c. Team

                   (as necessary)

             -Give/Review 2nd half assignments    

             -Show enthusiasm and support!

                                   TRADITIONAL SECOND-HALF

           -Continue to observe

            -Substitute at appropriate times so that everyone plays 50% of the game

            -Look for major weaknesses in his team

            -Write down those weaknesses

            -Prepare to improve those weaknesses at the next practice session

Note:

Soccer coaches are traditionally great observers.

They seldom become emotionally involved in the action…they avoid managing players' actions; nor do they assess or assist the referee!

-Thank the game officials

…Check game card for accuracy – usually kept by Referee

        …Get players passes for safe storage and next game

 -Thank and Praise your players and ask them to ‘Cool-Down!’

         …Replenish liquids (more water)

 -Thank the opposing coach and players

          -Remind your players to ‘thank’ the opponents

          -Have the players cool-down: Mentally and Physically.

 -Thank and help the team manager

          -Leave the facilities cleaner than when you arrived

          …Players, Parents & Team Manager should help..!

          -Join the players at the post-game social event regardless of the score