Advice for U-8 Soccer Parents

My oldest is now 14 years old and I’ve been through it all with him.

From town rec to club and everything in between. I’ve also coached him, been a parent on the sidelines, and helped train him.

I feel like it’s my civic duty to provide some advice for the parents of younger players.

Here goes…

My advice to all U-8 soccer parents: Enjoy the moment. Don’t be so hard on them.

I’m a pretty laid back guy but, when I look back at the last seven years, I wish I had been less strict on my son.

Although I enjoyed many moments, there were times when I was pretty tough. It was mostly around effort. He had his off days and I let him know that in a not-so-friendly way. I regret that.

Today, none of that matters.

I look back now and realize those were the golden days. The days when the kids would goof off but they would also try hard. They were learning the game…one day at a time.

What really matters? That you are there for them and YOU enjoy the moments.

Time will fly and they’ll be in high school. They won’t need you as much. They’ll “know it all”.

So, parents, enjoy the late night car rides, the Saturday morning games, and the smiles as they lace up their youth-sized cleats!

I purposely didn’t mention things related to soccer skills, getting faster, etc. It’s a time when they will naturally learn that. The best thing is to savor the time while it’s here.