Hi all - I've recently transitioned into coaching after several years of observing matches as a parent. My primary challenge revolves around finding the right balance between the structure and strictness of our training sessions.

We have a wonderful group of kids, and I want them to relish their time on the field while simultaneously instilling in them a desire to focus, learn, improve, and aim for winning matches (as we do lose most of ours). However, it's a bit frustrating when some of them view our sessions merely as a fun hour to kick around with friends. This is frustrating because all of them have the potential to get up to a good level and there are a few who possess remarkable talent that could shine even brighter with a bit more focus.

For instance, when we begin a session, they all eagerly rush towards the footballs, leading to debates about who should be the goalkeeper. By the time we manage to organise them, we've already consumed 10 minutes of our 60-minute training session.

Personally, I'd prefer to have their attention right from the start. Would something like the following approach be acceptable?

• Keep the balls in the bag until we need them for a specific drill.
• Assign a primary goalkeeper and a backup goalkeeper. Make it clear to those who argue about playing in goal that they should focus on their designated positions on the field. It's worth noting that our primary goalkeeper is exceptional and undergoes specialised goalkeeper training, making him significantly better in that role.

Another issue I face is how to deal with those who don't take the training drills seriously. For example, many players struggle with the basics of ball control and simple passing. I've simplified a training drill to emphasise working in pairs, passing the ball back and forth while ensuring a controlled touch before each pass. However, some players tend to get playful, attempting powerful shots at their partners or performing fancy moves like rabonas and flicks. Consequently, I decide to try a different drill that involves passing and control, but they struggle with more advanced exercises due to their inability to master the basics.

In summary, my goal is to have them enjoy the game and have fun, but I also want to coach them for improvement. It's challenging to strike the right balance, as I don't want them to view the sessions as mere playtime with friends, yet I'm also mindful of avoiding an overly authoritarian approach that might make them resent training. Your advice on this matter would be greatly appreciated!