The behaviour of a player on the pitch depends very much on multiple things.
First to address the behaviour of the player – What to do for bad and good.
– Praising the players that listen well. These are the ones that will thrive.
– Ignoring the bad. These players are the ones that potentially will need more help.
The language that you the coach uses to engage the players and interest them will have a big impact on how they play and how the game or session, dictates itself. Telling the good listeners they’ve done well will ensure that the bond between you and them continues successfully. The people that have not listened will always find tasks harder and therefore will not succeed.
Tip: Some may prefer a more one to one approach – so they might not actually be badly behaved, but lack understanding in a larger group. This is ok and is part of the learning process between the coach and the player. Bringing the individual aside later to maybe ask what they found difficult – give them a chance to speak – This way avoids confrontation and the player feeling like they have done something bad.
This may also work in a much smaller group with the players that find the same things difficult.
Your ability to run a session and take care of the players depends a lot on understanding of the player. In this next section the message is about how to get to know the people you coach and how to accommodate them in the ‘For All’ philosophy that The FA means.
If noticing a player is not themselves on the pitch that day, don’t force it out of them – Simply telling them that they can come to you when they feel ready can sometimes be enough. In being there for them this way, it will take a bit of weight off them. This will automatically change the way a player feels and what they do a bit, and if they get upset let them know it is ok for that too.
Simply listen to the player and how he or she feels will make it easier for both of you – the sessions will go smoother because you aren’t shouting at them because of their loss of focus. Loss of focus can mean games being lost and leading to big arguments within the team.
Having something put in place before the sessions start each week helps the player feel welcomed. Getting used to what other topics the players are into and asking about what they like in football will likely make them feel safer because there’s a connection.
Tip: Having a short survey each term/season for the players about what they find difficult or easy will have an affect on what you teach and how it is taught. Baby steps for some who are struggling and a challenge for the ones that have mastered their skill or positions – The challenge may be for them to try a new position and use their skill. This will promote engagement and lessen any unwanted behaviour. The baby steps may be how can they use a simple skill like a shield or looking for a pass, in their game. They will feel rewarded when they know they achieved it.