Navigating Sportsmanship: Teaching Respect & Fair Play in Youth Soccer

As a coach of young soccer players, you play a pivotal role in shaping not only their skills on the field but also their character. Teaching respect and sportsmanship is just as crucial as demonstrating the proper techniques to kick a ball or score a goal.

But how can you infuse these values in your young players and do it in a way that is fun and impactful? Here are some valuable tips from the Salvo SC staff!

Set Clear Expectations

Start by setting concise, easy to understand expectations for all of your players. With your team, establish a set of rules that promote respect and sportsmanship right from the start. Examples could include always shaking hands with the opposing team before and after a game, never making fun of a teammate or opponent, and always listening when someone else is speaking.

Make sure you explain what the consequences are if a player steps out of line. It could be that a player has to sit on the sidelines for a few minutes or has to do jumping jacks, but every player should know what happens if they break a rule.

Then be consistent. Reinforce these rules at every practice and game. If one of your players says something negative about another player, enforce a consequence.

Teach Responsibility

When your players make a mistake, it's important to teach them to take responsibility. Instead of allowing a child to blame others, guide them to recognize their error and encourage them to think of ways they could do better next time. This can be as simple as saying, "I didn't pass the ball well that time. Next time, I'll aim better."

Taking responsibility doesn’t have to be just for mistakes, either. Remind your players to be proud of their accomplishments, too.

When a player does make a good pass, let them know and own that feeling!

Encourage Forgiveness

When a teammate makes a mistake, teach your players to forgive and support them. Encourage all of your players to offer words of encouragement like, "Don't worry, we all make mistakes. You'll get it next time!"

This promotes a supportive team culture where every player feels valued and encouraged. Your support also helps players learn how to forgive themselves when they mess up, which allows them to move on, keep playing, and improve.

No player wants to be bogged down with feelings of inadequacy or fear that they’ll miss out on opportunities because they missed a shot, and it’s part of a coach’s responsibility to empower a player and help them through these moments.

Promote an Appreciation of Good Play (All Around)

Respect for the opposing team is another key pillar of sportsmanship. Teach your players to appreciate good play, no matter which team it comes from. Remind them that every player on the field is trying their best and deserves respect for their effort.

Losses can be tough for young players but are also valuable learning opportunities. As a coach, help your young athletes see losses as chances to grow and improve. Encourage them to reflect on what they could do better rather than focus on the defeat.

Congratulate them on their effort and remind them that losing a game doesn't make them losers!

Celebrate Humbly

Winning should be celebrated, but not at the expense of others' feelings. Teach your players to be humble winners. Celebrate your team's success, but also take time to appreciate the effort of the opposing team.

Encourage your players to shake hands with their opponents and say, "Good game." Recognize what the opposing team did that was impressive and admirable.

Show your players how giving kudos to the opposing team doesn’t diminish your win but makes it feel even better!

Be a Role Model

Remember, as a coach, you're a role model. Your actions and attitudes can shape your players' understanding of respect and sportsmanship. So, lead by example. Show respect to all players, coaches, and referees, irrespective of the game's outcome.

By doing so, you'll not only be nurturing great soccer players but also admirable individuals.

Get More From Salvo SC

Whether you’re a coach looking for more advice, creative activity ideas, and ways to improve your coaching, or you’re a soccer player with ambition and a heart for fun, Salvo SC has what you need! From coaching resources to a huge variety of boys and girls soccer leagues, our club is dedicated to developing well-rounded players, coaches, referees, and staff.

Contact us with questions about our leagues, training, Player ID, and more anytime!