If coaching sounds too awesome or you
have schedule conflicts, do not be afraid to volunteer to be an
assistant coach. A single coach with 12 to 14 charges to keep track of
leaves little time to provide specific instruction to players needing
extra help. Often several extra pairs of eyes to keep things in order
can have a significant influence on the quality of practice.
Having two or three additional
assistants at practices who can lead smaller groups under the overall
guidance of the head coach can be invaluable even if you have no
knowledge of the game whatsoever. The NJSL encourages a policy of
“two-deep coaching”. In simple words there needs to be at least two
adults at practices, games and while occasionally waiting for that late,
but apologetic parent. During games, each coach needs only one or
two assistant coaches on the team side of the field. A crowd of
adults on the team side only confuses the players. If they do not
listen to one coach they surely are not going to listen to a herd of
adults giving them contradictory instructions. If you can volunteer to
be an assistant, even occasionally, the help will be appreciated. Talk
to your team’s coach and schedule when you can help. Your kids and your
team will benefit and you will be surprised how easy and rewarding it
is.
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