Youth Soccer For Parents For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Getting your kid out onto the soccer field for organized play takes some planning. Most areas have multiple programs to choose from with different levels of play at different age groups. This Cheat Sheet gives you some tips on what to look for in available soccer programs to help you pick the right one. Then, there’s a guide on the basics your kid needs to get out there for the first game or practice. Finally, you have a role to play on game day itself: Take a look at ten things to do and not to do as a soccer parent.

Things to know about a soccer program before signing up

Finding the right soccer program for your kiddo means looking at a variety of programs, ranging wildly in fees and approaches to the game. Here are some key questions to consider when seeking out the right fit.

• What is the child-to-coach ratio? The smaller the ratio, the more individualized attention your player can expect to receive. Compare different programs with the same age grouping.
• Where are the trainings held? Are they at a consistent location during the whole season? Is this location convenient and feasible for you to bring your child to multiple times a week?
• Is the program aimed primarily at enjoyment and fun or at developing skills in a competitive environment? The answer to this should match the type of play your kid is looking for: look for “recreational” programs for beginner and more casual play and “competitive” for more challenging training and games.
• What type of qualifications and experience do the coaches have? They should be licensed at your state level and have a track record of coaching at the level your child is at.
• Is there travel involved to play during the season? And if so, when and where will you go for games and for tournaments.
• What is the program’s philosophy on playing time? Will it be equal amongst players or distributed according to performance?
• What are the different levels of play, from recreational to competitive, and is there a pathway to progress in the program?
• How much does the program cost? Are there extra expenses on top of the basic program expense: for example, uniforms or tournament fees? Are there payment plans to spread out the cost over time?

What your kid needs to get started on the soccer field

Fortunately, soccer isn’t a sport that requires a lot of equipment — at least compared to other sports like ice hockey, football or baseball. However, there are a few non-negotiables needed to get going in organized play.

• The right shoes: Soccer is, of course, played with the feet, so there’s nothing more important than having the appropriate footwear. That means getting your child fitted for the right size and making sure the type of shoe matches the surface: cleats for grass, turf shoes for turf, and flat shoes for indoor play on gym surfaces.
• Shin guards: The front of the shin is one of the most vulnerable points on the body during soccer play, given its proximity to the ball and feet kicking at it. So it’s important to always remember shin guards for both training sessions and games (and in any properly officiated game, players won’t be allowed to take part without shin guards on).
• Water bottle: Soccer’s a thirsty business, as a sport with extensive running, often in hot conditions depending on your climate. Your kid doesn’t necessarily need the most expensive or fancy water bottle, though a large one can be helpful for longer training sessions or tournaments in warm conditions.

Dos and don’ts for a parent on game day

Here’s something you might not expect: Being a parent on the sideline can be even more stressful than being the player! Your kiddo is out there on the field and emotions can run high. You also need to make sure they’re ready for the experience. Here’s what to keep in mind ahead of gameday.

• Do be positive when speaking to fellow parents, coaches, and most importantly, your child.
• Don’t show anger to anything happening on the field, berate referees, or criticize coaches or players.
• Do make sure your kid is prepared for the elements. That may mean lots of sunblock on a sunny day or a pair of gloves and layers on a cold day.
• Don’t forget a lawn chair. Seating isn’t usually provided on the sidelines.
• Do plan to arrive early —usually 30 minutes before a game for warm-ups (check the coach’s instructions) — and allow extra time for traffic or parking challenges.
• Don’t put pressure on your child to win: 99 percent of youth soccer games are about developing as players and enjoying the experience, which matters more than any individual result.
• Do remind your child to stay hydrated.
• Don’t try to coach your child from the sideline. The coach is called the coach for that reason!
• Do double-check the game location and field before you leave. There’s nothing less fun than showing up at the wrong time or place!
• Don’t spend the journey home from a game telling your child what they did wrong after a defeat. Keep the ride home positive.
• Don’t go right to the coach after a game to air your concerns about your player or the team.
• Do wait 24 to 48 hours before making contact with the coach after a game and approach the discussion in a calm, reasonable manner.