Hi Coaches,

This is my first post while HIVE moving to here. As we all know the FA 4 corners and all about England DNA. And as the coach we have to support our players whatever how old they are.

I coach an U6 team right now. We have one training and two league games (on weekend) per week. I really love these young kids cause they have more enthusiasm and passions in every training or match. We won U6 elite team (1-0) of my club in league last Sunday. We lost 1-6 when we played in first round. Before this game, I talked to our team's captain in person. He is a very talent boy and only 5 years-old. I required him to be goalie in the first half. No matter we lose how many goals, I asked him to try his best and to fight for his teammates. And as the team captain, I also asked him to play more responsibilities for his team. Don't do things selfish. 

Why did I say that to a little boy?

Last week we played a tournament. We have 8 games in tow days. I only have 7 players and we don't have goalkeeper. I rotated everyone to be keeper in each game. This boy was the keeper in the last game. I changed his position to play when we lost 0-3 while the game just starting. After the game, I asked him what happened when he played keeper, it was too easy to lose the ball with his ability. He thought the coach will let he to play if he lost lots of balls, because he is a good attacker. And he said yes when I asked him. 

So that's the reason why I talked to him before the new game. I think he can understand what I said even he is very young. And he played very well as keeper at that half. Everyone engaged and played hard. I'm not sure if I did the right thing, or not. I just wanna know what he thoughts and tell me by himself. 

Whatever how old the players are, I think we should avoid the mistakes immediately. Especially the young kids, to guide them, let them know what is the responsibility and obligation, how to be brave and dare, share their own experiences with teammates. Do not do egos.

I'm happy to listen any thoughts from everyone.

Xin, from China