players ability

[cj2408]

hi there,

just to ask if anybody has experienced the same as me and any ideas on the subject ?

i coach an under 6s team and i have had them for about 7 months now. they are progressing really well and i am very happy with them.
the problem that i have is that about 3 or 4 of the better players who stand out in training are so different in a match situation against another team, they seem like they dont want to get involved in the game.
we have played about 4 friendlies now and it has been similar in each game.does anyone think it is a confidence thing or something else ?

look forward to hearing your views

cj

[Jerzy]

Good first question

They're young kids, game day is different than practice and you and the parents may be putting a little bit of pressure on them. You know, the unis, parents there to watch the game, you may be more tense/excited. Practice is more about playing with your friends, now on game day you've got a different dynamic, even if you yourself are not preaching win win win (which you shouldn't). I know it's frustrating, but I wouldn't too much about it at this age. Just as long as they're having fun and getting better, and you're having fun, too.

[cj2408]

cheers for the reply jerzy,

having loads of fun with this age group, with definately no added pressure on them from me.
i have got friendlies now for the next 3 weekends so these things could change, i will just have to wait an see.

cj

[ian.curry]

I wouldn't analyse too much, not at this age. Like Jerzy says, its hard not to want to achieve, but if they come off smiling and with the right attitude then thats enough for the moment.
My brothers team is u10s, not exactly the greatest achievers but there is no pressure to be someone or do something on the field.

However a few weeks before Xmas two players were asked if they wanted to go back on after earlier being subbed, but they said no because they were happier kicking a ball about elsewhere with another friend. This kind of attitude cannot realistically be challenged on matchday but it won't bode well for the future, and would need a chat with the parents about playing for a team.