Coaching Responsibilities and Commitments:

The coach's first responsibility is to develop players as individuals.

Coach's Conduct:

Be a positive example for your players and their parents.
Do not use foul or abusive language.
Know the laws of the game.
Show respect for officials and opponents.
Be organized, prepared, and on time.
Minimize coaching from the sidelines during games.
Be open to players and parents about your coaching expectations.
Welcome feedback from players and parents on ways to improve.
Support and communicate Fruitport Soccer Club policies.
Focus on development to help all players reach their potential.
Coach players of all talent levels with equal enthusiasm.
 

Coach's Commitment:

The number one commitment is time. The club, parents, and your kids value the time you spend volunteering.
 

Policies addressing common coaching problems...

The coach needs to establish clear policies on the following issues. 

Practice attendance: The number and length of practice sessions and scrimmages is determined by each individual coach, depending on the team goals, expectations and level of play. Practice attendance is critical. It is expected that the player attend each scheduled practice and scrimmage, unless they have a legitimate prior engagement or family commitment. If a player is unable to make it to a game, scrimmage or practice, THE PLAYER should call the coach, in advance and inform him/her of their expected absence. .

Player conduct: As a coach, you are responsible for the conduct of your team. Part of a player's development into a quality athlete is the development of good sportsmanship exhibited through their actions. It is expected that players will show respect to their opponents, the officials, the fans, and their teammates at all times. While you may experience teams that don't exhibit this respect, it is expected that our teams will, regardless of the circumstances. Remember your team is representing the Fruitport Soccer Club both on and off the field.

Parental conduct: Coaches should encourage parents to exhibit good sportsmanship at all times. Players look to their parents for team support and positive recognition. Coaches play an important role in directing responsible conduct on and off the field. All coaches are ultimately responsible for not only the behavior of the players, but also the parents. Parents at times may need words of encouragement to reinforce the importance of professionalism. The positive support by parents preserves the integrity of the team and is a proud reflection on our community.

Player time in games: The Fruitport Soccer Club in its approach and philosophy of meeting the needs of all its members, offers opportunities for Recreational soccer experience. Recreational team assignments are designed for players who are either in the process of further developing soccer skills, or for players who are interested in less time commitment than a non-rec team requires. On a recreational team all players are afforded equal playing time regardless of skill level. The emphasis at this level is on individual skill development. Non-rec team assignments are designed for players who possess more advanced skills, and for players who desire more challenging playing experiences. The emphasis of non-rec teams is for individual skill development, as well as team advancement. Playing time may be quite skewed, and is not guaranteed at this level of play.

Intra club competition: All teams should be looking to scrimmage other teams within the club. These scrimmages should be controlled. The goal should be to provide an environment that fosters player and team development, as well as team strategies. Team scrimmages should not be a competitive environment.

Know your age group: There is a vast difference between the mental, physical, and emotional capabilities of players as they grow from U-6 to U-19. It is vital that the adult coach understand and apply this knowledge in practice, games, and all team activities. Remember that these guidelines are only generalities and that different players may mature at different rates.