Hello Parents,

Naugatuck Youth Soccer is a volunteer organization, and coaching is a great way to contribute. We know some of you think you don't have the time, or don't know enough about soccer, but NYS will gladly help you with tips and drills.  You can also find lots of drills online, right on our web site, in a coaching manual you can download.

The primary function of coaching, particularly at the younger recreation levels, is to show the kids the basics of soccer and let them have fun. You provide a little bit of organization and a good amount of motivation, and the kids will surprise you with how much they'll pick up. And if you want you can wear a whistle and carry a clipboard. How cool is that?

With our new web site, coaching a team for NYS is now easier and more organized than ever. As a coach, you'll have a password for the site that gives you access to your team's roster and schedule, which you can print, and you'll be able to email your team parents with news and updates, and even post game synopses and pictures of your players on the site (with approval from the player's parents).

So please volunteer to coach. Is it easy? No. Is it rewarding? Yes, it really is.

If you're interested in coaching or assistant coaching, or even if you're on the fence, please click the "Feedback" button on the left and send us a note.

Thank you,

Naugatuck Youth Soccer

• You are an assistant to the game in teaching the players and an assistant to the players in their understanding of the game.
  
  
• Prepare your practice sessions to meet the realistic challenges of the game; Give your players the chance to make decisions.
   
• Players play for enjoyment; Winning is only part of the game. Never ridicule or yell at the players for making a mistake or losing a competition.
   
• Be organized at all times and ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age and ability of the players.
   
• Although soccer is regarded as a players game, it is also to be enjoyed by non-players, i.e., Coaches, Referees, and Spectators; Show your enthusiasm to the players.
   
• Teach your players the rules of the game.
   
• Recognize the importance of your behavior at games; Harsh criticism of the referee sets a poor example for players and spectators (parents).
   
• Be sporting to your opponents and referee, both in victory and defeat.
   
• Allow your own personality to be reflected at practice and at games; Do not try to copy anyone else.