Coaches Resources & Support
Here, you will find valuable information and resources to kick-start your coaching season by answering common questions and offering helpful guidance.
General Coaching
COACHING GAMES
A typical game day begins with welcoming players onto the field and preparing them for the match. Before kickoff, there are usually a few minutes for the coach or assistant coach to allow players to warm up, kick the ball around, or warm up the goalie. When the referee is ready, they will ask for a team captain for the coin toss, which determines which team gets the first kick.
The coach will send the first 8 players onto the field for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, the referee will signal to "rotate," and the coach will call the players off of the field and send the next group on. The number of players on the field varies by age group: U8 and U10 have 8 players, while U12 and older have 11 players. We will ensure you know the correct number for your team.
Hot Tip: To simplify rotations, many coaches use a roster or lineup sheet, writing players' names next to their assigned positions and shifts. This helps keep the game running smoothly, makes rotations quicker, and makes it easier to remember the players' names while also helping you better understand the positions.
If a player is injured, the referee will stop play, and the coach will make their way onto the field to check on the player. Ask them if they are okay, if they are able to catch their breath and can walk to the bench. Please guide the injured player to the sideline for further evaluation. If the player is deemed okay, they may return to the field after two minutes.
Further discussions regarding head injuries and the mandatory steps to follow in all cases will take place during the coaches' clinic.
One of the primary roles of a volunteer coach is to motivate and support the players. Your enthusiasm and positivity are essential in keeping them engaged and energized. By creating a happy and encouraging environment, you help build their confidence and resilience, empowering them to give their best effort on the field. Your support not only enhances their enjoyment of the game but also contributes to their overall development as athletes.
PRACTICES
On practice days, coaches will use this time to have team discussions, cover important topics, and set up drills or fun games designed to help players improve their skills and teamwork. The focus will be on developing individual abilities while building a strong sense of cooperation within the team. For the final 15 minutes of practice, there will be a friendly scrimmage with the other team sharing the field, giving players a chance to apply what they've learned in a fun, game-like setting.
COMMUNICATING WITH PARENTS/GUARDIANS
Division conveners and ELSC admin will send mass emails and important updates to all parents/guardians or adult players for 18+ teams. However, coaches or assistant coaches are expected to introduce themselves at the start of the season and provide parents or guardians with the team name, along with a reminder to check the schedule on the PowerUp app or website.
For easier communication, we recommend coaches use a laptop or computer to send emails via PowerUp on the web at https://eastlondonsoccer.powerupsports.com/. The app is also available for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I rotate players on and off the field?
A: The referees manage the timing and will call out “subs” or “rotation” every 10 to 15 minutes. When it's time, all players on the field return to the bench, and the next group takes their place. A few minutes before the next line change, let the players on the sideline know what positions they'll be playing so they're ready to go. Using a 'lineup sheet' helps keep everything organized, making it easier to track who’s where. It’s common for kids to forget their positions, so if they ask for help, you’ll be able to quickly remind them!
A lineup sheet is a blank template with the positions for each player and each line, coaches simply write in the names of the players and use the sheet as reference for the game, making it easy!
➞ Click here for the printable U8 and U10 (8v8) Lineup sheet
Q: How do I run practices, and what should I do?
A: Before the season starts, we host a 1-hour coaches clinic at the BMO Centre indoor soccer field. This instructor-led session covers the fundamentals of coaching a youth soccer team and introduces several drills you can use during practice. You'll leave with practical tips, strategies, and exercises to keep your team engaged and improving throughout the season.
We also have easy to follow drills for coaches here
Q: Am I expected to be at every game?
A: Coaches are expected to be committed to attending every game and arriving on time. However, we understand that vacations and unexpected events may occur. Each team has both a coach and an assistant coach, so it's important to communicate and work together to ensure that someone is always present. The worst-case scenario is when coaches fail to communicate, and no one shows up, leaving the team without guidance. If there is an emergency or if assistance is needed, each division has a convener who oversees the division and can be contacted for support.