The Basics of Kids Football Coaching

When coaching kids’ football, winning must never be the sole priority. Instead, it is a matter of building skills, creating teamwork, and helping them build a lifelong love for the game. Unlike the high school or pro level, coaching kids’ football requires patience, creativity, and a teach-first mentality.

By keeping drills fun, simple, and safe, coaches can help kids build confidence as they learn the fundamentals of football.

Why Youth Football Coaching Is Different

Coaching youth football is more about teaching fundamentals than complicated strategies. Kids are still learning coordination, balance, and game awareness. Coaches need to prioritize:

• Fun rather than pressure
  
• Encouragement rather than criticism
  
• Teaching life skills in addition to football skills

Tips for Youth Football Coaching

Focus on Core Principles

• Instructions should be short and concise
  
• Drills should be physically demonstrated
  
• Praise every effort, not necessarily success

Build Trust and Confidence

• Praise small victories
  
• Provide constructive criticism (in a positive manner)
  
• Be consistent and fair
  
• Teach proper safety measures

Incorporate Age-Appropriate Football Drills

• Relay races (speed and agility)
  
• Cone drills (change of direction)
  
• Flag pulling games (defensive skills without tackling)
  
• Catching games (hand-eye coordination)

Keep Youth Football Practice Fun and Engaging

• End practice with a fun game like “Sharks and Minnows” with flags
  
• Create small competitions with prizes
  
• Rotate positions so kids play different positions

Track Youth Player Development

As children learn, coaches need to track development in a way that supports growth. SkillShark allows youth coaches to:

• Create customized evaluation templates
  
• Track player development over time
  
• Create feedback reports for athletes & parents
  
• Use video to demonstrate areas for improvement

Conclusion

Youth football coaching is about building not just athletes, but confident, respectful, and disciplined young people. By emphasizing safety, fun, and fundamentals, coaches position kids to win both on and off the field.

Through patience, creativity, and newer tools such as SkillShark, coaches can track progress and encourage the next wave of football players.