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Showing effort in training

Darren Williams

Hi all.

Im pretty laid back when it comes to our sessions. I like to let the kids have a say in what we are doing, fun first etc.

We are u10s and lose most weeks. I preach development first, so this doesn't matter to me and most of the kids don't let scores bother them.


Recently, Ive noticed a lack of effort from half of the group in training. Sat chatting + play fighting instead of committing.

Any ideas of how to approach the 'put in effort' without coming across as a tyrant.

Ive planned a chat to ask them WHY they come to training so then we can circle back to their answer - which Im hoping the majority will say 'to get better' 

My second worry is, actually follow that up.
If at least half want to get better, but some other dont and they carry on as they are....what is next? Im not in this to punish kids but at the same time, Id love to see them improve?


Thanks alot
Darren

  • 0

    Hello Darren, 

    id suggest looking up scoreboard soccer with David Baird. It’s little games with side games that reward good behaviours.

    He’s on Twitter and has a website. It’s simple ideas, have games going and have an activity in the middle where they can score extra points. You then send people to the activity for showing behaviours you like, so giving best effort etc.

    it’s a more fun way to promote positive behaviour. 

  • 0 in reply to David Edmondson

    Thanks David. I'm part of his paid app, I've used a number of the games before -thanks for the reminder.

    Its a tricky one because I feel like I've done the kids a disservice by not demanding more from them because Im too worried about upsetting or putting them off

    Thanks alot

  • 0

    Hi  

    Thanks for sharing and posing your question.

    One thing I find that works well is setting some standards and 'non negotiable' with your team. As you mentioned, let them take a lead on it and mutually agree what things they must do in training and in games for example, respect - players, equipment, coaches and another may be hard work - to always give 100%. if they take a lead on this and all agree then there is no excuse and they know the requirements. Then, if they don't follow this I would refer back to it and impose some rules. If players continue to mess about, every time you have to stop to remind them they lose a minute of game time but this can be earned back.

    Also, I would consider how are you challenging players. What terminology are you using. When working on defending are they defenders or counter attackers? Try and make practices and terminology as positive and empowering as possible. this way you are almost tricking players to work harder because suddenly they have a really positive and important role which they see in a more positive light.

    Continue to play games they love and think about challenging within these practices as they clearly enjoy these and get the most from them.

    Let us know what you think.

    Thanks, Will