House League Coach FAQ
1. Do I need any special skills to coach?
You need patience and enthusiasm! We may be biased but we think we have a pretty fantastic support system/resource section for our coaches. Lots of people start coaching soccer without really knowing the game – that’s ok – you can grow to love soccer with your children – the rules are simple at this level – our focus is on fun, exercise and loving the beautiful game of soccer! Plus all HEAD coaches get wonderful coaches jerseys… there’s incentive for you. Most HL teams have parent coaches who started off by just wanting to be involved.
2. What if I can’t make it to every game but still want to coach?
Many teams have co-coaches or a parent who is willing to fill in for a week if a coach is unavailable. Just let us know on your coaches application form.
3. Can my high school aged teenager coach?
Absolutely! We will provide confirmation of volunteer hours at the end of the season too!
4. Will I be coaching my child’s team?
YES! If you volunteer to coach, you will be the coach of your child’s team.
Coaching Approach
- All players are to receive equal playing time throughout the season.
- This is probably the number one complaint we hear through the season. Please ensure that you do everything possible to make it as fair as possible for all players.
- No scores or statistics are to be kept. Make it about the fun of the game.
- Encourage FUN, fair play, respect, and team work.
- Recreational referees are often first year refs. They might not always make the right call but they are trying/learning. Please respect the referees and their calls and ask your parents to do the same.
- Coaches are allowed on the field in the U3 and U5 divisions.
- With the U3 division, the parent can accompany the player on the field.
- Encourage all players to remain with their team when not on the field. Some coaches find it helpful to bring a blanket for the players to sit on while they wait for their turn.
- Have fun and enjoy the experience!
Thank you to those who step-up to help out!
Without our volunteer coaches, we wouldn’t have a league.
Soccer Basic Resources for Coaches
What it is:
Dribbling is moving the ball while keeping it under control using your feet.
How to teach it:
- Encourage players to keep the ball close to their feet
- Use both feet
- Take small touches, not big kicks
- Keep their head up when possible
Simple drill:
Have players dribble inside a small grid while trying to avoid bumping into other players. Encourage them to change direction and use both feet.
What it is:
Passing is kicking the ball to a teammate.
How to teach it:
- Players should use the inside of the foot
- Plant the non-kicking foot beside the ball
- Aim toward their teammate
- Follow through toward the target
Simple drill:
Pair players up about 5–10 metres apart and have them pass the ball back and forth.
What it is:
Shooting is striking the ball toward the goal to score.
How to teach it:
- Encourage players to look at the ball when kicking
- Strike the ball with the laces or inside of the foot
- Follow through toward the target
Simple drill:
Set up small goals and allow players to take turns dribbling toward goal and shooting.
What it is:
Shielding means protecting the ball from an opponent using your body.
How to teach it:
- Stand between the defender and the ball
- Keep the ball on the far foot
- Use your body to protect the ball
Simple drill:
Players work in pairs. One player tries to keep possession while the other gently tries to win the ball.
What it is:
A magical portal on the interwebs where you can become a soccer expert
How to use it:
- Ask anyone over the age of 3 to get you started
- Search for videos on coaching "X" year old soccer, for age appropriate video instruction
- Spend half an hour digging through to get you started, and watch your recommended videos algorithm permanently change
Simple search:
"Coaching 5 year olds to properly kick a soccer ball"
For younger players, halftime snacks should be light, healthy, and easy to eat. The goal is to provide a quick energy boost without making players feel heavy or sluggish when they return to the field.
Good Snack Options
- Orange slices
- Apple slices
- Bananas
- Grapes
- Watermelon
- Strawberries or blueberries
- Granola bars (low sugar)
- Apple sauce pouches
- Cheese strings
- Whole grain crackers
- Yogurt tubes
- Trail mix (nut-free if required)
Best Drink
- Water
Water is the best option for hydration during youth soccer games.
Snacks to Avoid
Some snacks can leave players feeling tired, sluggish, or overly full during the second half.
Avoid Bringing
- Candy
- Chocolate bars
- Sugary drinks or soda
- Energy drinks
- Chips
- Heavy baked goods (donuts, cupcakes, cookies)
- Fast food
- Large portions of food
These foods are often high in sugar or fat, which can cause a quick energy spike followed by a crash.