Coaching Juniors

Children benefit immeasurably from participation in sport both physically in terms of their motor development, and socially through interacting with others, developing their social skills and consequently their levels of self esteem and self confidence.

Anyone wishing to Coach or teach juniors in Touch or indeed any sport need to be aware that all children are different, the physical, emotional, social and skill learning characteristics that may differentiate children from one another, and the impact this has for their role.

The most fundamental issue is that children develop at different rates and that the range of difference can be very significant. Being sensitive to and making appropriate allowances for individual differences is an essential part of coaching or teaching.

Touch has significant benefits for juniors looking to participate in sport. It is safe, minimal-contact and gender inclusive and can be played by all ages.

The skills that are developed in Touch are transferable to many other sports. This ranges from sports such as rugby union & rugby league for which Touch is an extension and therefore closely linked, to sports such as basketball, netball & ultimate (Frisbee) where core Touch skills can form a platform for sport-specific development.

It is recommended that rule and game modifications are implemented for junior players to enable key basic skills to be introduced and mastered over a period of time. These modifications primarily focus on the playing area, game duration and rules around the roll-ball depending on the age group of the players. These are summarised in the download at the bottom of the page.

The WTA adopt a number of fair play codes to ensure that everyone involved with the programme is aware what is expected of them. The codes are action-oriented and should be used as guidelines for all players, coaches, and parents involved in the participation, administration, and support of Touch in Wales.

To download a copy of the Fair Play Codes, please see the downloads at the bottom of the page.

 In sport it is generally recognised that there are three stages in the development from child to adult.

Introduction:

Prior to the age of 10, children should be encouraged to learn basic physical skills (such as basic body management, throwing, catching, etc.) and to use these skills learnt, to play minor games and small group activities. Very young children need time to develop skills without the pressure of competition placed upon them. It is recommended that no structured competitions be provided for children under the age of the 10 years.

Development Stage:

The years from 10-13 are critical in the development of a positive attitude to life-long participation in sport, and to apply those skills during modified games. Children of this age group readily and eagerly accept the physical challenges of sport, and can gradually develop a capacity to cope with the psychological demands of competitive games.

Competitive Stage:

From the age of 14 adolescents will take part in competitions which, if not modelled on the adult game, will very closely resemble it. Modification of games can, and should, build up to participation in the adult game.

It is recommended that rule and game modifications are implemented for junior players to enable key basic skills to be introduced and mastered over a period of time. These modifications primarily focus on the playing area, game duration and rules around the roll-ball depending on the age group of the players.

For details of these modified game rules please click the link at the end of this page.

The following defines the responsibilities of a coach, how they can help their participants and some useful hints for coaching children.

Coaching Responsibilities

Develop Creative Programmes - Maintain interest and allow problem solving situations.

Ensure Organised Sessions – Sessions should be progressive and accommodating to all levels of participants.

Develop Adoptive Attitudes - Show resourcefulness with equipment, facilities and participants `growing pains'.

Identify and maintain Committed Time Spans - Realistic scheduling of practices and competitions has a motivating effect and allows for other interests to be pursued.

Create a Healthy Environment - Testing should be encouraged and specific training programmes structured where necessary.

Provide Information on Rules etc. - Video analysis and other resources of feedback should be used where appropriate.

Identify the needs of Participants - Attention to age, weight, height and appraisal of performances. Plenty of challenges included.

Be generous with your praise.

Coaching Children - Practical Hints

Commit time to the proper planning of each session. Allow for period of warm-up and cool-down at each end of the sessions.

Ensure sessions are enjoyable and fun. Happy is what all children should be during training and playing. All coaching sessions should be fun and the coach who plans activities for the enjoyment of children will find the experience rewarding.

Children need information if they are to improve. The coach should try to make performance feedback positive and informative. Taking notes at training is one way to make sure correct assessments are made.

Ensure an effective and manageable layout. An effective coach will arrange the layout of the session so that all children are clearly in view as they work at their activities.

Use practical demonstrations instead of instruction where possible. Never underestimate the power of a good demonstration. During the demonstration, make sure you highlight the main points and perform the skill a number of times.

Respect the needs of the children and try not to impart your needs on those who may not wish to accept them. Children play sport for their own reasons and the smart coach respects and understands these needs.

Arrive early. An effective coach arrives early to the game and training and prepares any equipment and activities so that the children can begin soon after arrival.

Never criticise or berate young children for poor or inadequate performance. Always be positive in your feedback and provide encouragement.

How to Help the Participants

K.I.D.S

K. Know your kids

• Enthusiasm
• Motivation
• Physical and Mental Characteristics

I. Interest your kids in

• Modified Rules
• Short Work Sessions
• Fun and Challenge

D. Develop your kids’

• Fitness Levels
• Skill Levels.
• Fair Play Codes

S. Success for your kids by

• Regular Appraisal
• Training Games
• Competitive Situations

Our children are our players of the future, and therefore they need to be encouraged and their talents nourished for a bright future.

Download File:  Game Modifications for Juniors

Download File:  Fair Play Codes