This has been a major topic in the USA, especially in soccer. I will try to shed some light on this topic with you readers,
purely from my perspective, of course. Comments and opinions expressed on this subject are mine, so please do not go
attacking other coaches! I have to say that because some people are getting upset about my page!
PLAYING TIME
- Playing time is something every player and parent wants.
- How much playing time do they want?
- How much playing time does the player deserve?
- How old are the players?
- Where are they playing?
Contrary to popular belief, I know that all coaches select players at tryouts intending to play them all as much as possible
throughout the season. Every player wants to play all the time; every parent wants their child to play all the time.
Some of you are now saying, "I don't want to play all the time, but I want to play more."
There is our first problem: DENIAL. If you do not want to play all the time, regardless of the other players or parents,
then you are probably already not playing all the time! PLAYING TIME IS EARNED! It is not guaranteed! I take that back--
it IS guaranteed up to U-9's and in recreational programs.
WHAT FACTORS DETERMINE PLAYING TIME?
- How hard are you working on your game, in practice and in your spare time?
- Are you giving 100% at practice, or are you being distracted by teammates who, by the way, are starters?
- Do you take the time to study the game? Do you study players who play your position?
- Are you doing the things your coach asks you to do, or are you playing your own game?
Sometimes a game is so tight that it is difficult for coaches to make changes because the rhythm of the game could
be affected in a negative way. Be honest, some games are crucial to win; if coaches are focused on playing time
rather than the result, everyone would be upset about the loss!
Would you rather your team win State Cup, Regionals, or other tournaments, or for the coach to make sure everyone gets
playing time? Sadly, the truth is RESULTS MATTER! Now I hope you start to understand the dilemma coaches are faced with
every game!
Successful teams are ones where everyone plays their part when called upon. Every player has a role and needs to be ready to perform that role to the best
of their ability at any given time, for the benefit of the team. If they are pouting on the sideline because they did not start, then they wont be ready mentally
when called upon.
HOW TO INCREASE YOUR PLAYING TIME:
- Stop pouting about it! Get out and work even harder on your skills, fitness, strength and coordination.
- Parents, stop stressing coaches about it; stress your child to dig deeper.
- Accept that this is a challenge for you. What do you intend to do about it?
- Players, ask your coach what you can work on to improve.
- Watch what world class players do when they are on the bench.
- Keep believing in your ability.
- Be honest about your ability and your performance! Not everyone will be at the same level at the same time.
- Do not isolate yourselves from team activities. (Players AND Parents!)
- Ask yourself each game why you deserve more playing time.
Did you score, pass well, defend well, control the ball, communicate in the game, dominate your goal, show leadership, deliver crosses,
make good saves, win your tackles, and give 100% effort so you were shattered at the end of the game?
If you evaluate your performance on the field with some of the pointers above, then you will know when it is time to talk to your coach about your playing time.
If you are not hitting the pointers, there is your first clue!!
Parents, I know you all want your kids to play. And we as coaches want to play them.
Remind them that nothing good comes easy. If they want to play Competitive, they need to prepare physically and mentally for the ups and downs
of this competitive game. Enjoy your soccer through the good and tough times!!
To all you readers: If you have any comments, questions or topics you would like addressed, feel free to email me.
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