As a youth coach, especially of the younger age groups, you need to be mindful that this a whole new experience for most of your players and their parents. With this age group it's not about winning, although you will probably have plenty of parents who think it is, it's about introducing them to something totally new and helping them develop of love for the sport.

This doesn't mean that you don't lead your players and their parents. You can't just let caos happen and expect your new team to love playing the game. Your players will learn to love the game by developing and performing the skills required of the sport at a higher and higher level. As they begin to accomplish more skills and play at a higher level, they will begin to appreaciate their accomplishments and the effort that it took to get there.

Your job is to instruct them on the basics and fundamentals of the sport you are coaching. Now if you have been thrust into coaching a sport that you are not familiar with it is your duty to learn everything that you can about that sport. Even if you are familiar with the sport, you can always learn more and become a better coach. There are plenty of videos, books and websites available regarding most sports.

So what kind of leader does it take? A Leader who doesn't lord it over, but serves those they lead, will change the world through the people they serve.

Our democratic, capitalistic society has always rewarded those who rise to the top with money, power, glory, and independence. But the big question is what they do when they get there? Now you are there. You are the leader, you have the power, what are you going to do with it? Are you only going to worry about your own child? Are you going to be consumed with winning and the cost of your weaker players?

Leaders who are selfish, caught up in power or glory don’t change anyone, other than to make them jealous or resentful. Consider Jesus – one who could have had the world at his feet, instead, got down on his hands and knees at the feet of those he was leading. He could have had riches and he chose to be poor. He commanded all power, but used it to heal the sick. He could have been known far and wide, but he chose to remain obscure.

What did he say about leadership? “The greatest among you must be a servant.” (Matthew 23:11) Of course he would say this because this is what he did, and how can anyone be greater than he? In your new leadership position, think about how you can serve those you lead.

Are you going to take personal responsibility for the development and the overall welfare of each and everyone of your players?. Are you going to be concerned with them outside of what they can do for you or your team? Are you following Christ’s model of leadership?

We encourage you to think about your priorities before your first practice. Write down your priorities, values, goals and philosophy hand them out to the parents at your first practice. Review them throughout the season and check yourself to make sure you are following them.