The Importance of a Good Coach to a Child's Development

Safety

• Effective coaches maintain a focus on safety for the young players. Coaches with formal training take classes in injury prevention through the use of warmups. The coach understands how to push players to improve without pushing so far that injuries occur. The team leader follows sport-specific safety guidelines, such as using proper protective gear. She understands how to build on current ability so the players don't attempt a skill that is too advanced. A safety-minded coach supports the physical development of players by not pushing them too far. She prevents injuries that could affect a child's growth and development.

Skills Development

• An effective youth coach focuses on skill development in the young players. The structure of sports practices allows the kids to practice the skills using proper form. This allows the players to learn the correct way to play the sport from an early age so they are better equipped to play in high school. If players aren't given a chance to develop proper form, they may eventually have to relearn the skills to correct the sloppy execution.

Sportsmanship

• Kids learn how to act on the field from parents, fellow players and coaches. The coach sets the stage for sportsmanship skills that her players learn. A team leader who focuses on winning at all costs teaches the players that rules and hard work aren't as important as being first. An effective coach encourages teamwork, effort, respecting rules of the sport and respecting the ref. She also expects the same standards of sportsmanship from her players. The sportsmanship skills the kids develop become part of how they treat others, both on the field and in everyday life.

Interest

• A motivating coach helps build an interest in the sport for a child. Youth sports coaches in particular play a role in the attitude their players develop. Youth sports leagues are often the first experience kids have with organized sports. If the coach yells, focuses only on winning or doesn't put much effort into the team, she may discourage her players from continuing in the sport. An effective coach can help develop a lifelong interest in sports and physical activity.