Soccer coaching tips to help you nurture talent
If you have a star soccer player in your team it may seem like a nice problem to have, but what is the best way to coach an exceptional player without overloading them with too much responsibility?
Remember that talented players need to work on the basics of technique and soccer skills as much as any other player.
However you need to give them freedom to explore their ability and push the boundaries of what they can do in training and matches.
Two ways to nurture talent
- Ask the player to come up with solutions to training or game-related problems.
They then need to implement the solution, either by suggesting a training activity or move. This is best done as an informal talk away from the other players to start with.
- Overload the attack or defence by one player when the good player is on the other side. Don’t give them instructions, but allow them to find out what works.
However, use this soccer tactic sparingly, so as not to stifle your player's enthusiasm if the pressure is too much.
Coaching exceptional players is an important part of any soccer coaching set up. If you want more ideas for developing and motivating your players, subscribe to my coaching publication
Soccer Coach Weekly.
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Soccer coaching tips
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