Soccer Coaching : The Top 10 Qualities of a Good Soccer Coach

Who has been volunteered by someone else to coach a soccer youth team? Or, who put their hand up to take on the role because no one else would? I think a lot of us have been in this situation before. Soccer coaching or any form of sports related coaching can be one of the most daunting tasks you will ever undertake, however it can also be one of the most rewarding. The benefits are you get to spend time with your child, be outdoors and share a common interest with them. With everyone's time being so precious these days, making time now to share your child's interests will help cement your relationship with them for years to come.

If you find yourself in this position now as a new soccer coach, you may be feeling that you don't have what it takes. You might know how to play soccer or you might not have any knowledge of the game at all. Don't let this concern you as there is a lot of information on soccer available and knowledge can be acquired.

I feel before anything else, there are certain qualities a coach should possess to be able to undertake the role effectively. These qualities can be applied to any coaching role, at any level, not just soccer coaching. These qualities that I have listed below are by no means exhaustive nor are they listed in order of importance as I feel they are of equal importance.

1. Patience.
This quality is particularly important when coaching youth soccer.

2. Commitment.
Put the effort and the time in and you will be rewarded.

3. Enthusiasm.
You might not have the necessary technical knowledge however if you are enthusiastic, the players will also be enthusiastic as it is infectious.

4. Trustworthy.
You are in a position where you need to have the trust of the players as well as their parents.

5. Open Minded.
Be able to accept others ideas

6. Punctual.
Don't expect players to be punctual if you cannot. Set the example.

7. Decisive.
To be able to make decisions under pressure

8. Diplomatic.
To be able to handle difficult situations that may involve the players or coach.