Dakota United Soccer Club - 1st & 2nd Grade Coaches

Although the skills of 1st and 2nd graders are improving it is still important to remember that they are only 6-8 years old. As with the PreK and K age groups you do not need to teach them everything about soccer and should aim to create an environment based around fun. The best way to coach this age group is to create practices that include a lot of fun activities/ games. By doing this they will learn without even realizing it, find more enjoyment in the game, and your job as a coach will become much easier!

Here are some basic principles to remember:

The game is the best teacher
Focus on individual ball skills
Keep all the players moving as much as possible
Try not to include activities with lines
Encourage players to demonstrate to one another
Create a positive learning environment
- Demonstrate what you are looking for
- Use quick and simple explanations for activities
- Support players with positive corrections and feedback
- Continuously encourage everyone to do their best