And it begins. Squads have been selected, pre-season training has begun and youth teams are playing friendly matches in preparation for the season ahead.
Let the horror stories begin. Nothing frustrates me more than learning of players who travel to take part in these matches only to receive minimal game time.
How does this work? These matches mean nothing. Their purpose is to serve the entire playing roster, not just the coach’s strongest eleven. It’s unfortunate that society and the youth club culture places such a heavy emphasis on winning. Don’t get me wrong, learning to deal with both winning and losing are important parts of sport but, in my opinion, this should not be the case in the pre-season phase.
This is the time to give late bloomers every opportunity to play more. It’s important for building both the confidence and skill/tactical development of young players. Receiving minimal game time at this stage can definitely have an adverse effect on the mind set and confidence of the junior. Incorrect management of playing time could also leave the squad down a player, because what is a young player without confidence?
Coaches need to take responsibility for their squad selections. If they’ve had the judgement and insight to select a player to be part of their squad, they should back themselves and at the same time back the player.
Constant feedback between coach and player, and the young player’s parents, is important. No one should be left guessing why they are not receiving the same game time opportunities as the others.
Here’s my best advice to any young players experiencing tough times early in the season, remember these key points:
- This is a journey. These are steps towards your goals and dreams. Don’t get stuck in the now.
- Always mark yourself, not on the outcome, but the effort you put in.
- Remember you the whole person – you are more than just an athlete.
- Many players experienced tough times in their younger playing days but with focus, self belief, a supporting family and, most importantly, hard work, these athletes not only achieved their dreams but more.
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