Podcast
NEW PODCAST BUILT FOR YOU - UNCOACHED

I started The Coaching Dad 2 years ago on Fathers Day. Today I’m taking The Coaching Dad experience to a podcast, where I’ll have an opportunity to speak to some of the industry's best experts to bring you even more insights, tips, and perspectives.

My goal has always been to support parents and coaches as they help develop youth athletes. This is another big step in the right direction. I hope you’ll take this opportunity to further develop and join me.

The first 3 episodes are out now!

About Uncoached:

Uncoached is a podcast for parents and coaches trying to figure youth sports out. Through honest conversations with experts, coaches, parents, and athletes, we explore things that shape the youth sports experience. Every episode delivers practical insights and actionable ideas you can immediately use to create a better experience for the athletes you coach, support, and love.

Where is it?

You can find Uncoached wherever you listen to podcasts. You can watch the episodes on YouTube.  For quick access, click below.

Have a great Father’s Day with your family.

Thank you for your engagement.

And thank you for caring about youth sports!

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
The Best Thing Dad Can Bring Is His Presence

With Father’s Day just a couple days away, this feels like the right time to slow down and talk about something that matters more than most of us probably admit: the role dads play in the sports lives of their kids.

Not every dad is a coach. Not every dad knows the sport inside and out. Not every dad has the perfect advice after a tough game. But every dad has the ability to make a child feel seen. That might happen while throwing in the backyard, rebounding shots in the driveway, carrying chairs across a tournament complex, or simply sitting quietly in the stands so their child knows, “Dad showed up for me.”

Youth sports can become so focused on results, development, and “what’s next” that dads sometimes forget the biggest gift they bring isn’t instruction. It’s interest. It’s attention. It’s the willingness to play, listen, encourage, and enjoy this short window while the kids still want us involved.

The point is not that dads have to be perfect. The point is that they matter. And in youth sports, sometimes the best thing a dad can do is stop trying to turn every moment into improvement and just enjoy being part of the moment.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Podcast
NEW PODCAST BUILT FOR YOU - UNCOACHED

Launching officially on Fathers Day, but I wanted you to have first access as a thank you.

Uncoached is a podcast for parents and coaches trying to figure youth sports out. Through honest conversations with experts, coaches, parents, and athletes, we explore things that shape the youth sports experience. Every episode delivers practical insights and actionable ideas you can immediately use to create a better experience for the athletes you coach, support, and love.

You can find Uncoached wherever you listen to podcasts. You can watch the episode on YouTube.  And make sure to follow The Coaching Dad on Instagram, TikTok or Facebook.

Insight of the week
Coach Dads - Know When to Take the Whistle Off

Being a dad and a coach is one of the best, weirdest, hardest combinations in youth sports. On one hand, you get a front-row seat to your child’s growth. You see the effort, the progress, the struggles, and the little wins that most people miss. On the other hand, it can be tough to know when you’re being “Coach” and when your child just needs “Dad.”

That line matters.

Kids who have a parent-coach can sometimes feel like the evaluation never ends. Practice ends, but coaching continues in the car. The game ends, but the review starts at dinner. A backyard catch turns into a mechanics session. A missed shot becomes a lesson. And even when dad means well, the child can start to feel like their sport is always being graded.

For coaching dads, the goal is not to stop helping. The goal is to create healthy separation.

A few practical ways to do that:

• Create a clear “coach time” and “dad time.”
  At practice or during games, you may need to coach. But once the game ends, your child should feel the shift. A simple line can help: “Coach is done for today. I’m just Dad now.”

• Avoid the automatic car-ride breakdown.
  The car ride home is not always the best time for feedback. Sometimes it should just be music, snacks, silence, or “I loved watching you play.” If your child wants feedback, they’ll often ask for it. If they don’t, forcing it can turn every ride home into a review session.

• Ask permission before giving advice.
  This one is simple and powerful: “Do you want my thoughts, or do you just want me to listen?” That gives your child some control and prevents dad from becoming another voice they have to manage.

• Praise them as your child, not just as an athlete.
  Make sure they hear things like: “I love your attitude,” “I’m proud of how you treated your teammate,” or “I just like spending time with you.” Kids need to know their value doesn’t rise and fall with performance.

• Let some moments stay playful.
  Not every backyard session needs a purpose. Sometimes the purpose is laughing, messing around, and letting your kid beat you in a silly competition. Those moments build connection, and connection makes coaching more effective later.

The coaching dad trap is thinking every moment is a teaching opportunity. Sometimes the better move is to let the moment breathe. Your kid may forget the exact advice you gave after a game, but they’ll remember whether being around you felt safe, fun, and encouraging.

Drill of the week
Two Player Ground Ball Work

Skill Focus: Ground ball fielding, soft hands, footwork, throwing accuracy, building confidence through simple reps

Setup
Set up two players about 10–15 feet apart to start. Each pair needs one softball and two gloves. If you have younger or newer players, keep the distance short so the drill feels successful. As they improve, move them farther apart or add movement.

How to Run It

• Player A rolls a ground ball to Player B.

• Player B gets into a good fielding position: feet wider than shoulders, glove out front, knees bent, eyes down.

• Player B fields the ball cleanly, gathers their feet, and makes a good throw back to Player A.

• Player A catches it, then rolls the next ground ball back.

• Continue back and forth for 2–3 minutes, then reset with a new focus.

Coaching Tips

• Teach players to field the ball out front, not underneath their body. A simple cue is: “Show your glove to the ball.”

• Encourage soft hands. If the ball is bouncing off the glove, have them relax their hands and “receive” the ball instead of stabbing at it.

• Footwork matters after the catch. Field it, bring the ball to the throwing hand, step toward the target, and make a clean throw.

• Keep the throws controlled. The point is not to fire the ball as hard as possible. The point is clean fielding followed by an accurate throw.

Progressions

• Round 1: Regular Rollers
  Smooth ground balls right at the fielder so they build confidence.

• Round 2: Left and Right Movement
  Roll the ball slightly to each side so the fielder has to move their feet before fielding.

• Round 3: Backhand / Forehand Basics
  For older or more advanced players, roll balls just outside their body so they can practice reaching with control.

• Round 4: Quick Hands Challenge
  How many clean field-and-throws can the pair complete in 60 seconds without a bobble or wild throw?

This drill is simple, but that’s why it works. It gives kids a lot of touches, builds confidence, and is easy enough for a dad and child to do in the yard for 10 minutes without needing a full practice setup.

Book highlight
A PERFECT Fathers Day Gift!

The Constant Coach

Get this for the Dad in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Tip of the week
Dads - Don’t Miss This Season While Chasing the Next One

It’s natural for dads to want to help their kids improve. We see potential. We see what they could become. We want them to work hard, compete, build confidence, and maybe get to that next level. There’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, when it’s done well, a dad’s encouragement can be one of the biggest gifts a young athlete receives.

But there’s a line we have to watch.

If we’re always focused on the next team, the next tryout, the next level, the next private lesson, the next skill gap, we can accidentally miss the season they’re actually in. One day you’re tying cleats, carrying the bat bag, reminding them which goal to shoot at, and chasing foul balls with siblings. Then suddenly they’re bigger, more independent, and those little moments start disappearing.

So this week, especially with Father’s Day close, here are a few reminders for dads on the parent side of youth sports:

• Be interested before you are instructional.
  Before giving advice, ask about the experience. “What was fun today?” “What felt hard?” “What did you like about practice?” Interest builds trust. Instruction without connection can feel like pressure.

• Make playing together feel like a gift, not extra training.
  Shooting baskets, throwing grounders, kicking a ball around, or hitting soft toss can absolutely help your child improve. But the tone matters. Keep some of it light. Laugh. Let them create games. Let them teach you something. Improvement doesn’t always need a serious face.

• Watch your post-game energy.
  Kids can read dads fast. They know when we’re disappointed, even if we don’t say it. After a tough game, try leading with connection: “I love watching you play.” There will be time for growth later. First, make sure they know your love didn’t change.

• Celebrate the ordinary stuff.
  Not every memory comes from a championship. Sometimes it’s the early-morning donut stop, the muddy cleats, the car ride playlist, or the five minutes in the yard before dinner. Those moments are easy to overlook when we’re chasing big milestones, but they’re often the ones kids carry.

• Remember that sports are part of the relationship, not the whole relationship.
  Your child needs to know you’re proud of them when they play well and when they don’t. They need to know they can quit overthinking, sit next to you, and just be your kid.

The next level may or may not come. The scholarship may or may not come. The elite team may or may not happen. But the time together is happening right now. That’s the part dads should not miss.

Blog Highlight
Volunteer Dad Coaches: The Quiet Backbone of Youth Sports

There’s a good chance your kid’s team exists because some dad finally said, “Fine, I’ll coach.”

Maybe he didn’t have a whistle. Maybe he didn’t have a practice plan. Maybe he hadn’t played the sport since middle school. Maybe he only raised his hand because the league email said, “We still need a coach or this team may not happen.”

And just like that, a group of kids had a team.

That’s the part of youth sports we don’t talk about enough. Before the uniforms, before the snacks, before the game schedule, before the team pictures, before the end-of-season medals, somebody has to step forward and say, “I’ll do it.”

Gear up
Coach or Fan, There’s Something For You!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Use My Exact Coaching Strategies

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
The Real Development Happens Between Practices

Most youth teams get a couple practices a week, maybe a game, and then a whole lot of “regular life.” School, family stuff, other sports, and long stretches where the ball isn’t at their feet or the bat isn’t in their hands. That’s not a flaw in the system. That’s just what youth sports looks like for most families. Which is exactly why the best coaches (and the best sports parents) don’t rely on team time alone to drive improvement.

The goal with at-home work isn’t to turn your kid into a professional. It’s to build a small habit that makes practice feel easier and games feel less overwhelming. When kids touch the ball a little more often outside of organized time, they show up with more confidence, better coordination, and less of that “I haven’t done this in a week” feeling. Even better, they’re more likely to stick with the sport because progress is fun when they can feel it.

A research anchor that supports the idea of keeping at-home training light, consistent, and enjoyable:

• Research on deliberate practice suggests that focused, purposeful practice is related to performance in sport, but that practice quality and concentration matter. For kids, that’s often better served by short, focused sessions rather than long workouts. (hhs.purdue.edu)

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Drill of the week
Wall Soccer Touches

Skill Focus: First touch, passing accuracy, weak foot work, receiving imperfect rebounds, composure under small pressure

Setup
Find a safe wall or rebound surface. Mark a target on the wall (chalk, tape, or a small square). Start 6–10 feet away. If you’re indoors, use a softer ball. If you’re outside, use a normal ball and keep the area safe.

How to Run It
Start with a two-touch rhythm so the player can feel control: pass to the wall, let it return, cushion the ball with a soft touch, and pass again. Once the rhythm is smooth, move to one-touch passing. The goal isn’t speed at first; it’s clean contact and keeping the ball within a step. After that, alternate feet so both sides get trained evenly. Finally, add a “bad bounce” round by hitting the wall slightly harder or aiming a bit off the target so the return isn’t perfect. This is where players learn the real skill: staying calm when the ball doesn’t come back exactly how they expect.

A simple structure that works well (about 6 minutes total):

• 90 seconds: two-touch rhythm

• 90 seconds: one-touch passing

• 90 seconds: alternating feet

• 60 seconds: “bad bounce” control

• 60 seconds: score round (how many clean passes in a minute)

Coaching Tips
The first touch is the difference maker. The goal is to absorb the ball, not let it ricochet off the foot. If the ball keeps popping away, the player should slow down and shorten the backswing. And if motivation is low, turn it into a personal best challenge: “Beat yesterday’s clean passes by 5.” Progress is addictive when kids can track it.

Insight of the week
Coaches: Gamify Home Work So Kids WANT to Do It

If you tell kids “go practice at home,” most won’t do it consistently. Not because they don’t care, but because “practice” is vague and boring. They don’t know what to do, how long to do it, or whether they’re doing it right. And if it feels like extra homework, it’ll last about two days.

The best approach is to make at-home work feel like a small challenge that’s easy to start and satisfying to complete. In other words, you’re not assigning “more work.” You’re giving kids a game they can win. When coaches do this well, they also reduce a common family problem: parents feeling like they need to coach technique at home. The child has a clear mission, the parent can simply support the routine, and everyone stays sane.

A simple way to build this is to create weekly micro-challenges that fit into a 10–15 minute window. Keep them specific, measurable, and simple enough that kids can do them without you on FaceTime talking them through it. For example, instead of “work on ball control,” make it: “50 wall passes with your right foot and 50 with your left.” Instead of “get shots up,” make it: “25 form shots from the same spot with perfect balance.” The goal is clarity and momentum.

Here are a few formats that work well for coaches:

• The “Level Up” system: Bronze (1 session), Silver (3 sessions), Gold (5 sessions). Kids love the idea of leveling up, and it gives every kid a chance to win without turning it into a talent contest.

• The “Streak” system: One short session per day for five days. Streaks are powerful because kids don’t want to break them once they get going.

• The “Team Total” system: The team works toward a collective number of sessions. If the group hits it, practice ends with something fun (a scrimmage, a competition, coach vs kids, etc.). This turns at-home work into something shared instead of something isolating.

• The “Personal Best” system: Kids track their own scores and try to beat last week, not each other. This is great for kids who shut down when they compare themselves.

Two important guardrails keep this healthy. First, reward consistency and effort more than outcomes. You don’t want kids faking a score or feeling embarrassed if they’re behind. Second, keep it optional but celebrated. The fastest way to kill at-home training is to turn it into guilt. Kids need to feel invited, not threatened.

Book highlight
A PERFECT Fathers Day Gift!

The Constant Coach

Get this for the Dad in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Tip of the week
Parents: The “Short Burst” Practice Approach

Parents usually want the same thing: “I want my kid to improve, but I don’t want to fight about it every night.” The short burst approach is the best middle ground because it makes improvement realistic for a busy family and emotionally safe for a kid.

Short burst practicing means one simple, focused session of 10–15 minutes on a single skill. Not a full workout. Not multiple drills. Not a lecture. Just a small chunk of reps that your child can complete without feeling like sports has taken over the entire day. When done right, kids finish feeling successful, which makes them more likely to do it again tomorrow.

To make this work at home, it helps to tie the session to a routine that already exists. After homework, before dinner, or right after dinner are usually the easiest windows because the decision is basically made for them. When the time is consistent, the negotiation goes away. This also matters because kids don’t build habits through motivation; they build habits through repetition and routine.

A few parent practices that help keep this productive and low-stress:

• Be the structure, not the coach. You’re the timer and the encourager. The more you correct technique mid-rep, the faster it turns into a battle. If you want to help, ask the coach what the “one cue” should be and echo that.

• Keep the goal visible and finishable. A clear target like “100 wall touches” or “25 clean swings” works better than “practice for a bit.” Kids love finishing something.

• Use language that builds ownership. “Do you want feedback or do you want reps?” is a great question because it respects their autonomy. Most kids choose reps, and that’s a win.

• End on a win. If frustration starts building, shorten the session and finish with a rep they can execute cleanly. The goal is building the habit, not draining the kid.

• Praise consistency. Instead of only praising outcomes (“great shot”), praise the habit (“I love that you got your reps in today”). That’s how the routine becomes part of who they are.

This approach fits what we know about youth attention and practice quality: shorter focused sessions are often more effective than longer, distracted sessions—especially for young athletes who are balancing school and everything else.

Blog Highlight
Get Kids Practicing More At Home

Every coach has had this moment.

You run a great practice. You teach one or two key things. You can literally see kids improving while you’re there… and then a week goes by and it feels like you’re starting over.

It’s not because kids don’t care. It’s because most youth athletes don’t get enough reps between team practices to lock skills in. Team practice time is limited, attention is split across the whole group, and kids spend way more time at home than they do with you.

That’s why “at-home practice” is the real development multiplier. Not two-hour sessions. Not intense workouts that turn the sport into a job. Just consistent reps that add up.

Gear up
Coach or Fan, There’s Something For You!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Use My Exact Coaching Strategies

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
College is EXPENSIVE. Don’t Miss Scholarships That Could Help!

If you’ve got a young athlete with big goals, the recruiting process can feel overwhelming fast—but it doesn’t have to be. Athlete Narrative simplifies everything by giving athletes a clean, professional way to showcase their skills while helping parents stay organized and informed along the way. It’s a smart, stress-reducing tool that turns a complicated journey into a clear path toward college opportunities and potential scholarship offers.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
Multi-Sport Kids Aren’t the Problem

If you coach youth sports long enough, you’ll have multi-sport athletes on your roster. Some are your best competitors. Some are your best leaders. And some will miss a game because of a tournament they committed to months ago. That’s the deal.

The tension usually isn’t “multi-sport vs. commitment.” It’s unclear expectations. When coaches and parents don’t talk early, little schedule conflicts turn into big emotional ones. But when everyone is aligned, multi-sport athletes can be a huge advantage: they bring different movement skills, different coaching, and often a healthier relationship with competition.

A few research anchors worth knowing:

• Many sports medicine and athletic training guidance sources recommend avoiding year-round single-sport volume (often framed as no more than ~8 months per year in one sport, plus at least 2 rest days per week and not more weekly hours than the athlete’s age).

• The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine has stated that early sport specialization may not lead to long-term success and may increase risk for overuse injury and burnout, encouraging sport diversification at younger ages (with some early-entry sport exceptions).

• The American Academy of Pediatrics’ clinical guidance on overuse injuries/overtraining notes evidence suggesting specialized athletes may be at increased risk of overuse injuries, with training load and repetition being key considerations.

• NCAA methodology for “probability of competing” uses high school participation data and NCAA participation numbers and reinforces a simple reality: the pipeline is selective and long-term outcomes aren’t determined by a single youth-team label—so balanced development matters.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
Coaches: How NOT to Fight Against Multi-Sport Athletes

The best multi-sport coaches I’ve seen aren’t “soft” about expectations. They’re clear about expectations. They build a plan that respects commitments, protects the athlete’s body, and still holds standards for effort and team culture.

Start by deciding your stance as a program and saying it out loud: “We support multi-sport athletes, and we also expect communication and accountability.” That one sentence prevents half the drama.

A few coaching moves that make the season smoother fast:

• Set expectations early (before the first conflict).
  In your parent meeting or welcome email, spell out: what’s required, what’s optional, how you handle overlaps, and how far in advance you want schedule conflicts communicated. Most issues are “surprises,” not conflicts.

• Use a simple “commitment ladder.”
  This keeps it fair and non-emotional:

  1. School events (graduation, major family events)

  2. Previously committed games/tournaments

  3. Practices
     The exact order can vary by team, but having a consistent ladder reduces arguments.

• Plan around the calendar, not around hope.
  If you know your shortstop is also playing soccer during your playoff stretch, don’t pretend it won’t matter. Build reps for the backup now. Multi-sport success requires depth, not frustration.

• Protect recovery and avoid the “double-load weekend.”
  Multi-sport athletes can get crushed when they play two games in one sport and then have a full tournament in another. Many health guidelines emphasize limiting volume and building rest.
  Your role as coach isn’t to police everything, but you can encourage smart decisions: reduced reps after heavy weekends, lighter practice options, or a clear “recovery day” expectation.

• Praise the right things publicly.
  If multi-sport kids feel punished socially, you’ll push families toward unhealthy choices. Instead, praise communication, effort, and being a great teammate—even when someone misses a day.

Your goal isn’t to make a kid choose your sport out of guilt. Your goal is to create a program so healthy that families want to stay aligned with it.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
College is EXPENSIVE. Don’t Miss Scholarships That Could Help!

If you’ve got a young athlete with big goals, the recruiting process can feel overwhelming fast—but it doesn’t have to be. Athlete Narrative simplifies everything by giving athletes a clean, professional way to showcase their skills while helping parents stay organized and informed along the way. It’s a smart, stress-reducing tool that turns a complicated journey into a clear path toward college opportunities and potential scholarship offers.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
3-Player Soccer Turn-and-Play Passing

Skill Focus: First touch, turning under control, passing accuracy, scanning before receiving

Setup

• Set up three players in a straight line: A — B — C.

• Player A and Player C are the endpoints, about 20 yards apart.

• Player B stands in the middle (about 10 yards from each end).

• One ball starts with Player A.

How to Run It

• Player A passes to Player B.

• Player B takes one touch to settle (cushion the ball into space) and turns to face Player C.

• Player B uses a second touch to pass to Player C.

• Player C passes back to Player B the same way.

• Player B settles with one touch, turns, and passes back to Player A.

• Keep it moving back and forth for about 3 minutes, then rotate a new player into the middle.

Coaching Tips

• Encourage Player B to scan before the ball arrives (quick look over the shoulder) so the turn is smoother.

• First touch should be a “setup touch” — not dead under the feet, but into the direction they want to turn.

• Keep passes firm enough to be realistic, but accurate enough to keep rhythm.

Progressions (optional)

• Make it two-touch max for Player B (one touch set, one touch pass).

• Add a “coach call” for the turn direction: inside turn vs. outside turn.

• Add light pressure: a defender stands a few yards away from Player B as a passive obstacle (no stealing yet), just to create awareness.

Tip of the week
Parents: How to Support Multi-Sport Without Driving Your Coach Nuts

Most coaches aren’t mad that kids play multiple sports. They get frustrated when they feel blindsided, or when communication is messy and inconsistent. Parents can solve that with a few simple habits.

Here’s what helps coaches the most (and keeps your athlete in a good spot):

• Communicate early and in writing.
  As soon as you have a tournament schedule, share it. Even if it’s “tentative.” Coaches can plan around imperfect information better than last-minute surprises.

• Teach your athlete to own the conversation (age-appropriate).
  A quick message from the athlete builds maturity and respect:
  “Coach, I’ll miss Thursday because of baseball. I’ll be at the game Saturday and I’ll get extra touches in at home.”

• Ask one direct question that creates alignment.
  “Coach, what’s most important for my kid to stay sharp when they miss a session?”
  Now you’re reinforcing the team plan instead of inventing your own training at home.

• Don’t ask for special treatment—ask for clarity.
  Instead of “Can you still start them even if they miss?” try:
  “How do you handle roles when kids miss for other sports?”
  Clarity prevents resentment (for you, the coach, and other families).

• Help your athlete manage energy, not just schedules.
  If they’re playing a lot, watch the warning signs: constant soreness, irritability, poor sleep, dread of practice. Many guidance sources emphasize rest and load management because burnout and overuse injuries are real risks.

The biggest win is when your athlete learns: commitments matter, communication matters, and effort travels from sport to sport.

Blog Highlight
Multi-Sport Athletes: How Coaches and Parents Can Make it Work

If you’ve been around youth sports lately, you’ve probably heard some version of this:

“Coach says we need to pick one.”
“If we miss this tournament, he’ll remember.”
“She’s good at basketball, but soccer conflicts… what do we do?”
“My kid wants to do both, but I don’t want them falling behind.”

Welcome to the modern multi-sport problem: kids want variety, parents want what’s best, and some sports environments act like loyalty equals exclusivity.

Gear up
Coach or Fan, There’s Something For You!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Use My Exact Coaching Strategies

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
Books Written for Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
The Voice in Their Head Shows Up on the Field

Most youth athletes don’t struggle because they “don’t want it.” They struggle because their internal voice is loud at the worst times: after a mistake, before a big moment, when they feel judged, or when they compare themselves to a teammate. Positive self-talk isn’t cheesy. It’s a practical skill that helps kids reset, focus, and keep trying—especially when confidence is shaky.

The good news is self-talk is coachable. You don’t need a sports psychologist on the sideline to build it. You need consistent language, simple routines, and a culture where mistakes are treated as part of learning (not proof of failure).

A few research anchors to frame why this matters:

• Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. children ages 3–17 (21%) had ever been diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral health condition (2021). That doesn’t mean “sports is the problem,” but it does mean many kids are showing up to practice carrying real stress and big feelings.

• A widely cited sport psychology meta-analysis found self-talk interventions have a positive effect on sport task performance overall. In other words, the way athletes talk to themselves can measurably change results.

• Research with young athletes has also shown motivational self-talk can improve self-confidence and reduce cognitive anxiety, which is exactly the combo most kids need when they play tight.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
Coaches: Treat Self-Talk Like a Fundamental, Not a Pep Talk

If you want players to use positive self-talk in games, you can’t introduce it only after losses or during a meltdown. It has to be part of your normal coaching language—like a team habit. The best coaches I’ve seen do three things consistently: they name it, model it, and repeat it until it sticks.

Start by teaching kids to notice their inner voice without making it a big therapy moment. A simple question after a mistake works: “What did you say to yourself right there?” You’ll be shocked how many kids immediately say things like “I’m trash,” “I always mess up,” or “Coach is mad at me.” That’s your opening. Not to lecture—but to give them a better script.

Then, build a team reset routine that is short enough to use under pressure. Most kids can’t remember a paragraph when they’re nervous. They can remember three steps. Something like: breathe, one cue, next job. Your coaching job is to make that routine feel normal and safe.

A few practical ways coaches can teach self-talk without losing practice time:

• Coach the “next play” language out loud. When a kid makes a mistake, you model what you want them to learn: “Okay. Next rep. One fix.” That tone becomes their inner voice over time.

• Praise the reset, not just the result. If a player strikes out and then responds with focus and effort, say it: “That was a great reset.” You’re training what you want repeated.

• Create a team cue that’s yours. One phrase you use constantly so kids start borrowing it: “Simple and steady,” “Eyes up,” “Next job,” “One play.”

• Teach neutral self-talk first, then positive. Some kids can’t jump from “I stink” to “I’m amazing.” Neutral works: “I’ve done this before,” “Breathe and focus,” “Play the next one.” (Neutral stops the spiral, and that’s the win.)

• Be careful with labels. “You’re a natural” feels nice until they struggle. “You’re improving because you’re working” builds a stronger foundation.

If you want the self-talk culture to take, it has to show up when it’s inconvenient—after errors, after tough innings, after missed shots. That’s when kids learn what you really value.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
College is EXPENSIVE. Don’t Miss Scholarships That Could Help!

If you’ve got a young athlete with big goals, the recruiting process can feel overwhelming fast—but it doesn’t have to be. Athlete Narrative simplifies everything by giving athletes a clean, professional way to showcase their skills while helping parents stay organized and informed along the way. It’s a smart, stress-reducing tool that turns a complicated journey into a clear path toward college opportunities and potential scholarship offers.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Lacrosse “Keep Away”

4v3 Keep Away — Move It, Don’t Hold It

Skill Focus: Quick passing, moving to space after you pass, communication, ball security under light pressure

Setup

• Create a box/grid with cones (about 12–20 yards square depending on age).

• Put 4 offensive players around the outside (corners or “perimeter” spots).

• Put 3 defenders inside the box.

• Offense has one ball. Defense is trying to intercept or knock down passes.

How to Run It

• Offense’s job is to complete passes while keeping spacing and staying calm.

• After a player passes, they must move (simple rule: “Pass and replace” to a new spot).

• Defense works at moderate pressure (start at 50% so offense learns spacing and passing lanes).

• If defense knocks it down or intercepts, switch roles or rotate defenders.

Coaching Tips

• Keep it simple: “Catch, look, move it.” Holding the ball too long kills flow.

• Teach off-ball players to be helpful: show a clear passing lane, talk, and be ready early.

• Encourage “safe speed”: quick passes are great, but clean catches and smart decisions matter more than rushing.

• If kids are struggling, reduce defenders (4v2) or make the box bigger until the movement looks smooth.

This drill is great because it teaches the exact habit that separates teams fast: the ball moves quicker than feet, and everyone has a job even when they don’t have the ball.

Tip of the week
Parents: Make Self-Talk Bigger Than Sports

Parents have a huge advantage: you get to shape the inner voice in real life, not just during competition. The easiest mistake is only talking about self-talk after games, when emotions are high. The better move is building small habits that teach kids how to talk to themselves when life is hard—homework frustration, friend drama, nerves before a test, and yes, sports pressure.

A few practical ways to reinforce good self-talk without sounding like a motivational poster:

• Catch the “always/never” talk and gently rewrite it.

  • “I always mess up” becomes “That one was tough. What’s the next fix?”

  • “I’m terrible” becomes “I’m learning. What do you want to try next time?”
    This isn’t arguing with their feelings; it’s coaching their language.

• Use effort-based proof, not hype. Kids believe what they can point to. Ask: “What’s one thing you did better today than last week?” That builds real confidence evidence.

• Give them a short script for pressure moments. Help them pick one line they can own:

  • “Breathe. Next play.”

  • “Simple and steady.”

  • “I’m ready for this rep.”
    Put it on a sticky note, in their bag, or on the mirror.

• Watch your tone after mistakes. Kids borrow your reaction as their inner voice. If your face says “that was embarrassing,” their inner voice learns shame. If your face says “reset,” their inner voice learns resilience.

• Teach the 10-second reset at home. One slow breath in, longer breath out, then: “What’s the next right thing?” You’re training recovery, not perfection.

The goal isn’t to raise a kid who never feels doubt. The goal is to raise a kid who knows how to respond to doubt without folding.

Blog Highlight
Coaching Positive Self-Talk in Youth Athletes

A kid misses a layup and their shoulders slump. A baseball player strikes out and suddenly they’re mad at the world. A soccer player turns the ball over and you can almost see the confidence leave their body. Nothing about their skill changed in two seconds… but their inner voice did.

That inner voice is the mental side of youth sports. And whether kids know it or not, they’re talking to themselves all game long.

Gear up
Coach or Fan, There’s Something For You!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Use My Exact Coaching Approach

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
Books Written for Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
Tryouts Tell You More Than Skill - They Reveal Culture

Tryouts are one of the few moments where you get a real, unfiltered look at an organization. Not the Instagram version. The real version. How coaches communicate. How they handle mistakes. Whether the environment feels calm and organized or rushed and chaotic. And most importantly: whether kids are treated like developing athletes… or like numbers being sorted.

Parents often think tryouts are only about making a roster. But tryouts are also your best window into what the season experience will feel like for your child. If the tryout feels confusing, tense, or disrespectful, it usually doesn’t magically improve once you’ve paid and committed.

A few research anchors that help explain why culture matters so much:

• The American Academy of Pediatrics has noted that 70% of youth athletes drop out of organized sports by age 13, with factors like burnout and the overall youth sports environment playing a role.

• In the Aspen Institute’s National Youth Sports Parent Survey, 20.5% of parents said their child experienced inappropriate pressure or exploitation by coaches or other adults supporting the team/club/school in the past year.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
Coaches, You Are Being Evaluated as Well!

Tryouts are first impressions on steroids. Families don’t know you yet, so they’re reading everything: your tone, your organization, how you correct mistakes, and whether you treat all kids like they deserve respect. Even if your intentions are great, perception is reality in those first sessions.

The best coaches don’t need a perfect tryout. They need a clear one. Clear expectations. Clear stations. Clear communication. When things feel predictable and fair, families relax. When things feel chaotic or “secretive,” families start imagining the season will feel the same.

Here’s what coaches should keep in mind because it shows up immediately to parents and players:

• Organization is leadership. A simple flow (warm-up → stations → competitive reps → wrap-up) signals competence. Long lines, confusion, and constant improvising signals the opposite.

• Your correction style is the culture preview. Teaching is great. Embarrassing, sarcasm, or “coaching through shame” is a red flag on day one because it only gets sharper when the season gets stressful.

• Tell families what you value (in one sentence). Something like: “We evaluate effort, coachability, fundamentals, and how players respond after mistakes.” That transparency lowers anxiety and builds trust fast.

• Watch who gets your attention. If only the top kids get coaching, everyone notices. Families aren’t expecting equal reps, but they are watching for basic fairness and respect.

• Treat the nervous kid like a human, not an inconvenience. Some kids look worse at tryouts because they’re tight. Great coaches spot the kid who listens, settles in, improves rep-to-rep, and doesn’t crumble after a mistake.

Tryouts are a short window, but families can learn a lot from how you run them. The good coaches understand that and coach accordingly

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
Scholarships Are Available - Don’t Miss Them

If you’ve got a young athlete with big goals, the recruiting process can feel overwhelming fast—but it doesn’t have to be. Athlete Narrative simplifies everything by giving athletes a clean, professional way to showcase their skills while helping parents stay organized and informed along the way. It’s a smart, stress-reducing tool that turns a complicated journey into a clear path toward college opportunities and potential scholarship offers.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Double Play

Skill Focus: Clean feeds to 2nd base, getting the force out at 2nd, quick transfer, and an accurate throw to 1st — while keeping it safe and game-realistic.

Setup

• Put infielders at SS, 3B, 2B, 1B (add a runner at 1st if you want it game-like).

• Coach stands at home plate or near the mound with a bucket of balls and either rolls grounders or hits light fungos.

• 2B starts a step or two off the bag, ready to move to cover 2nd on the ground ball (the “force” base).

• If you have extra kids, put them in lines at SS and 3B to rotate reps quickly.

How to Run It

1. Coach rolls/hits a ground ball to SS or 3B (mix it up each rep).

2. 2B covers 2nd base: sprints to the bag, gets their body ready to receive the throw/flip. (This is the player making the “turn” to 1st.)

3. SS or 3B fields and feeds to 2B:

   • For younger teams, start with an easy throw (chest-high) before you add underhand flips.

   • Once comfortable, mix in an underhand flip from SS/3B to 2B (very common for close plays).

4. 2B gets the out at 2nd:

   • Touch the base with a foot while catching (force out).

   • Then step and throw to 1B.

5. 1B finishes: sets a good target, catches, and stays “on the bag.”

6. Reset and rotate: SS/3B goes to the end of their line; 2B rotates if you want.

Coaching Tips (what makes this drill game-accurate)

• “Get the first out first.” Teach kids the priority is the force at 2nd. If the feed isn’t catchable, eat it or take the sure out at 1st. (That’s real baseball/softball.)

• 2B footwork: touch and throw without rushing. A common youth cue is: arrive, show hands, catch, then step toward 1st and throw. (Keep it simple and repeatable.)

• Feed quality matters more than speed. A clean chest-high throw/flip is worth more than a “fast” wild one.

• Safety note: teach 2B to avoid contact by not hanging over the base path. They should focus on the bag/ball and get rid of it quickly — no “collision” mindset. (Many coaching resources emphasize creating space at the bag.)

• Make it progressive: start at 50% speed with perfect form, then build to game pace, then add a live runner.

Simple Progressions (keep it fun + realistic)

• Level 1: No runner. Easy feeds only. Just “catch on bag → throw to 1st.”

• Level 2: Add the underhand flip from SS/3B.

• Level 3: Add a runner from 1st going full speed to force real timing decisions.

• Level 4 (advanced): Mix in “bad feeds” occasionally (a little high/inside) so 2B learns to adjust their feet and still make a safe throw.

Tip of the week
Parents, Stuff You Shouldn’t Ignore

Most parents can feel when something is off, but it helps to have language for it. Here are red flags that usually show up during tryouts and tend to predict the season experience pretty accurately.

Red flags in the organization and process:

• No clear plan or structure. Some downtime is normal, but if kids spend most of the tryout standing around while coaches “figure it out,” that’s usually what the season feels like too.

• Evaluation criteria feels secretive or inconsistent. If you can’t get a clear explanation of what matters, it’s hard to trust how decisions are made.

• All showcase, no teaching. If it’s only timed sprints and isolated reps, you’re not seeing how the program actually develops players or how coaches handle mistakes.

• Pressure tactics. Any version of “decide today,” “don’t ask questions,” or “if you’re serious you’ll do this year-round” should make you pause and think.

Red flags in coaching behavior:

• Public embarrassment. Eye rolls, yelling at nervous kids, mocking mistakes, or “tough love” for a 10-year-old. That’s not building competitors; that’s building fear.

• Favorites are obvious immediately. Extra reps and extra patience for a few kids while others are ignored. This tends to show up later as playing-time imbalance and cliques.

• Constant negativity, no instruction. “Stop doing that!” without “Here’s how to fix it.” Coaches who can’t teach under pressure often default to frustration.

Red flags in adult sideline culture:

• Parents coaching loudly from the sidelines during tryouts. If that’s normal on day one, game day is going to be loud and messy.

• Ref/official hostility is treated as normal. Sportsmanship issues are a real, documented stressor across youth sports environments.

A simple gut-check:

• Did this feel like a place where kids can learn and grow?

• Did coaches teach and communicate, or just judge?

• Did my child feel supported to compete, or scared to mess up?

Competitive is fine. High standards are great. But “toxic pressure” shows up early if you know what to look for.

Blog Highlight
Tryout Red Flags Parents Should Watch Out For

Tryout season has a funny way of turning normal parents into full-time detectives.

You’re watching drills, checking the vibe, trying to figure out who the coaches are, how the team is run, and whether your kid is about to have an awesome season… or spend the next 4–8 months stressed out, confused, and slowly hating the sport.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
Teams Run on Practice…and Moms Run on Everything Else

Every youth sports season has the obvious stuff: practices, games, lineups, wins, losses. And then there’s the invisible stuff that actually keeps the machine moving—rides, uniforms, snacks, calendars, RSVPs, emails, “where are the shin guards,” and the quiet pep talks that happen in the car when a kid is nervous or discouraged.

A lot of moms do that work without asking for credit, and honestly, without always getting it. This week’s Huddle is a simple reminder: moms aren’t just “support.” They’re often the reason a sports family stays organized, connected, and steady when the season gets chaotic. And we recognize the Moms that step up to coach too!

A few research anchors that help show how real the time and volunteer load is for families:

• Project Play has reported that parents spend hours per day on sports-related logistics on days their child has sports (driving, prep, being at practices/games, etc.).

• The Aspen Institute’s National Youth Sports Parent Survey found parents spend meaningful weekly hours across roles and responsibilities (including being a “team parent,” communicating, and other behind-the-scenes work).

• In that same ecosystem, “team parent” shows up as one of the most common volunteer roles—basically the role that quietly holds teams together.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
If You’re a Coach, Gratitude Should Be Part of the Program

Most coaches don’t intend to overlook moms. They’re just focused on the next practice, the next lineup decision, the next tournament. But here’s what’s true: when moms feel respected and included, the entire team environment gets smoother—communication improves, kids show up more prepared, and small issues get solved before they become big issues.

A good coach doesn’t just “accept help.” A good coach creates a healthy lane for it. That means moms aren’t guessing what to do, stepping on toes, or feeling like they’re only noticed when something goes wrong.

A few ways coaches can intentionally recognize and support sports moms (without turning it into a big production):

• Say thank you early and often—specifically. Not “thanks for everything,” but: “Thanks for organizing the snack schedule,” or “Thanks for getting the carpool sorted,” or “Thanks for helping the kids feel calm today.” Specific gratitude feels real.

• Treat moms like partners, not a help desk. If the only time a coach communicates is when they need something, it creates resentment. A quick weekly update builds trust and reduces confusion.

• Remember: moms are managing more than the sport. School stress, siblings, bedtime, work schedules, injuries, emotions. Your organization (or lack of it) either helps or adds weight.

• Make space for moms who step up to coach. Plenty of moms coach without a long sports background. Support them and create more good coaches in the system—which youth sports badly needs. (Volunteer gaps are a real challenge in many programs.)

The easiest mindset shift: the season feels lighter for everyone when the adults feel respected and aligned.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
Take the Stress Out of Recruiting

If you’ve got a young athlete with big goals, the recruiting process can feel overwhelming fast—but it doesn’t have to be. Athlete Narrative simplifies everything by giving athletes a clean, professional way to showcase their skills while helping parents stay organized and informed along the way. It’s a smart, stress-reducing tool that turns a complicated journey into a clear path toward college opportunities and potential scholarship offers.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Read the Flight - First Touch

Skill Focus: Judging high soccer balls, choosing to step up vs. drop, controlling the ball so it stays close (no ricochets), defender confidence under pressure

Setup

• Create a 15x15 yard box with cones.

• Put 1 defender in the box at a time (rotate every 4–6 reps).

• Coach stands 8–12 yards away with balls.

• Optional: add a “target gate” (two cones) that the defender must dribble through after controlling the ball.

How to Run It (No Heading Version — Ages 10–12)

• Coach tosses a high ball into the box (not a laser—give them time to read it).

• Defender makes one of two decisions:

  • Step up and settle (preferred): get behind the ball early and cushion it down with the foot/thigh/chest so it lands close.

  • Drop and take the bounce (safe option): back up, let it bounce, then control it cleanly.

• After the first touch, defender takes two controlled dribbles and exits through the gate (or passes back to coach).

• Repeat 4–6 reps, rotate.

Coaching Tips (simple cues that work):

• “Get behind it early.” Most bad touches happen because the player arrives late and reaches.

• “Soft touch, deaden the ball.” The goal is to absorb the ball, not swat it.

• “Choose early: up or back.” Indecision is what causes ricochets.

• Celebrate the smart bounce choice too. The goal is good decision-making, not forcing a hero touch every time.

Advanced Progression (Heading Version — Only if age/league allows):

• Same setup, but now the defender can:

  • Head it back to coach (simple, safe header), or

  • Head it down to feet (more advanced), then dribble out.

• Coaching cue: “Eyes open, firm forehead, aim where you want it to go.” Keep it controlled—no “just smash it” headers.

This drill is money for young players because it teaches confidence on high balls without rushing them into skills they aren’t ready for yet.

Tip of the week
Make it Easier on Sports Moms with Better Communication

This section is half “coach tips” and half “team culture tips,” because the best way to support moms is to reduce friction. The more organized you are, the less time families spend chasing information—and the more energy they have for the actual fun part: watching their kid play.

For Coaches (simple things that help a lot):

• Put the schedule in one place. One calendar. One app. One pinned message. Don’t make families hunt through texts to find start times.

• Share a weekly “3 Things” note. Example:

  • What we’re working on this week

  • What to bring / any changes

  • One simple “at-home” reinforcement (like 5 minutes of touches or a confidence cue)

• Give a clean communication boundary. “Game day is for coaching and cheering. Questions after the 24-hour cool down.” This protects you and protects families from emotional conversations.

• Use a team parent in a real role (not a random role). If someone volunteers to help, give them a clear lane: snacks, team chat reminders, end-of-season party, uniform collection. The clarity prevents drama.

• Say what you mean about expectations. If “optional” isn’t optional, don’t call it optional. If it truly is, say that clearly too.

For Moms (and parents) who want to support the right way:

• Ask the coach two questions that keep you aligned:

  • “What are the top 1–2 things you want my child focusing on right now?”

  • “What’s one cue you want us reinforcing at home?”

• At home, reinforce effort + routine more than technique. You don’t need to re-teach the sport. You can help with consistency: gear packed, water bottle filled, sleep, and the “we show up and try” mindset.

• Keep the car-ride coaching light. If your kid wants to talk, listen. If they don’t, don’t force it. Save feedback for calm moments.

• When your kid struggles, support the reset. A simple line helps: “Tough day. Still proud of you. Next practice is a new start.”

Blog Highlight
A Letter to Sports Moms

To the sports moms,

Thank you.

Thank you for being the calendar keeper, the snack packer, the uniform finder, the ride giver, the water bottle filler, the cleat locator, and the person who somehow knows where the missing glove is even when nobody else can find it.

Thank you for the early mornings, the late nights, the muddy shoes, the grass-stained pants, and the backseat that probably looks like a sporting goods store exploded.

Thank you for sitting through freezing games, blazing hot tournaments, long practices, and weekends that somehow disappear one field, court, or rink at a time.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
The Position Isn’t the Problem - The Story We Attach to It Is

In youth sports, some positions get treated like trophies (shortstop, quarterback, point guard), and others get treated like a backup plan. Kids pick up on that fast. And once a child starts believing a position means “I’m not important,” their effort drops, their confidence shrinks, and they stop playing loose.

The truth is pretty simple: teams don’t just need stars. They need reliable role players, utility kids, and glue players who do the quiet work that wins innings, shifts momentum, and keeps games from getting messy. A coach’s job is to make every role feel real. A parent’s job is to reinforce that story at home.

A few research anchors that connect directly to this “role” conversation:

• A classic team-sport study found that role ambiguity (not being clear on what your job is) is related to lower athlete satisfaction—meaning confusion around “what am I supposed to do?” can lower enjoyment and buy-in.

• Research also links role ambiguity with competitive state anxiety—which matches what we see: kids play tighter when they aren’t sure what’s expected of them.

• Project Play has reported the average child spends less than three years playing a sport and quits by age 11, often because it “isn’t fun anymore.” Feeling like you don’t matter is one of the fastest ways to make sports stop being fun.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
Coaches - Your Job Is to Make Every Kid Feel Useful

A confident team isn’t built by hyping up the best player and hoping everyone else stays motivated. It’s built when every kid knows: “This is my job, and it matters.” That’s role clarity. And it’s one of the biggest confidence builders a coach can provide, whether you’re coaching a star shortstop or the kid who bounces between three positions depending on who shows up.

Here’s how to make that real in day-to-day coaching:

• Give every position a “value statement.”
  Say it in front of the team so the message sticks.

  • “Right field is our cleanup crew—extra bases stop with you.”

  • “Second base is our traffic controller—you keep chaos from becoming runs.”

  • “Corner infield is courage—you’re the one charging bunts and hot shots.”

• Replace “where you play” with “what you own.”
  Don’t just tell them the position—tell them the assignment.

  • “In right field, you own backing up first, keeping balls in front, and getting it in fast.”

  • “At third, you own bunts, quick decisions, and being loud.”
    That clarity is exactly what research shows helps satisfaction and reduces stress.

• Coach the utility kid like they’re a weapon, not a spare part.
  Utility players win seasons. Make it visible: “You’re our plug-and-play. You keep us stable.” Kids take pride in what you name.

• Make the invisible work visible.
  Stars get obvious stats. Role players don’t. So build “hidden stats” into your feedback:

  • best backup

  • best communicator

  • best hustle between pitches

  • best “next play” response

• Kill position jokes quickly.
  Even “light” jokes about right field or the bench land hard. If you want buy-in, protect dignity.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
Take the Stress Out of Recruiting

If you’ve got a young athlete with big goals, the recruiting process can feel overwhelming fast—but it doesn’t have to be. Athlete Narrative simplifies everything by giving athletes a clean, professional way to showcase their skills while helping parents stay organized and informed along the way. It’s a smart, stress-reducing tool that turns a complicated journey into a clear path toward college opportunities and potential scholarship offers.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Volleyball “Net Guard” Blocking Drill (Beginner)

Skill Focus: Getting into a good blocking stance, moving along the net, jumping straight up, and putting hands up safely to “stop” the ball

Setup

• Use one net.

• Pick 1 blocker at a time on one side of the net (the rest of the kids form a line behind them).

• On the other side, place a coach (or a player who can toss) with a ball.

• Put two floor markers (cones, spots, or tape) on the blocker’s side:

  • One marker near the left side of the net

  • One marker near the right side of the net
    These markers are where you want the blocker to move to.

How to Run It

1. Start in the middle.
   The blocker begins in the middle of the net with knees bent and hands up at chest level (ready position).

2. Coach points left or right.
   You point to one of the markers (left or right).

3. Blocker “slides” to that spot.
   The blocker takes quick side steps (like shuffling) to the marker—no crossing feet if they’re new.

4. Jump straight up and “make a wall.”
   When they reach the marker, they jump straight up with both hands reaching high above the net like they’re “making a wall.”
   Key: hands up, fingers spread, strong arms.

5. Coach tosses the ball into their hands (gentle).
   As they jump, you softly toss the ball so it touches their hands. (You’re not trying to blast them—just letting them feel what a block is.)

6. Land safely and reset.
   They land on two feet, bend knees, then go back to the middle and repeat.

• Do 6 reps, then rotate to the next blocker.

Make It Fun (optional)

• Give them a goal: “How many ‘wall touches’ can we get in a row without touching the net?”

• Or: “Can you beat your last score?” (count clean blocks)

Progression (once they get comfortable)

• Instead of you pointing, you toss left or right and they have to move based on where the ball is going.

• Add a second blocker later (advanced for this age) so they learn to move together, but keep it slow.

Tip of the week
Parents - Help Your Kid Fall in Love With Their Impact

You can’t control lineup decisions, but you absolutely control the story your athlete tells themselves about their role. If you treat certain positions like a downgrade, your kid learns that “value” is tied to status. If you treat the position like a responsibility, they learn confidence travels.

A few practical ways to support this at home:

• Ask impact questions, not status questions.
  Instead of “Why weren’t you at short?” try:

  • “What was your job today in that spot?”

  • “What did you do that helped the team?”

  • “What’s one play you made that won’t show up in the stats?”

• Teach “hidden stats” and celebrate them.
  Backing up bases, being the cutoff, talking, staying ready, hustling on and off the field—coaches notice this more than kids think.

• Validate the disappointment, then reframe it.
  “I get it—you wanted that spot.” (validation)
  “Let’s make this role yours. What does great look like here?” (reframe)

• Use the “trust” language.
  Kids love hearing this: “Coaches put kids they trust in important moments.” Then point out what trust looks like—effort, preparation, attitude, consistency.

• Partner with the coach, don’t guess.
  One helpful question to ask: “What are 1–2 things you want them focusing on in this position?”
  Now you can echo the same cues at home without accidentally coaching against the plan.

Your kid doesn’t need to love every assignment immediately. They just need a path to feel proud of it.

Blog Highlight
Every Kid Brings Value: How Coaches Build Confidence No Matter the Position

You can spot it from the first inning.

A kid gets put in right field and their energy drops. They stop talking. They start shuffling their feet. They look back at the dugout like they’re waiting for the “real players” to get back on the field.

Or maybe it’s not right field. Maybe it’s second unit. Maybe it’s “you’re not starting today.” Maybe it’s “you’re coming in for a few minutes here and there.”

And the story that starts forming in that kid’s head is the same:

“Coach doesn’t think I matter.”
“I’m not good.”
“I’m just here.”

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
The Best Youth Sports Programs Don’t End at Practice

One of the biggest gaps in youth sports isn’t talent. It’s alignment. A kid hears one thing at practice, something totally different at home, and then wonders why nothing feels consistent on game day. Parents should be involved—kids need rides, routines, encouragement, reps, and support. But involvement works best when it’s in the same direction as the coach, not a competing set of instructions.

The research is pretty clear that parents play a major role in how kids experience sports—for better and for worse. Constructive involvement can boost motivation and enjoyment, while excessive or misaligned involvement can increase pressure and stress.

A few helpful research anchors for this topic:

• A 2024 review focusing on parents’ role in motivation highlights that parents influence athletes in multiple, overlapping ways (support, expectations, feedback style, and emotional climate).

• The Aspen Institute’s recent survey write-up on youth sports includes findings on negative parental behaviors (things like comparisons, pressure, and arguing with coaches/refs) and how those behaviors show up differently across groups—reminding us that what adults do around the game matters a lot.

• A 2025 scoping review of coach–parent interactions reinforces that the coach-parent relationship is a key piece of the youth sport experience—and that the quality of that interaction shapes outcomes for kids.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
You Coach the Team for a Few Hours - Parents Shape the Other 160+

Even if you run great practices, most of a child’s week happens outside your team environment. That’s not a complaint—it’s an opportunity. When parents understand the “why” behind what you’re teaching, they can echo it at home in ways that help kids improve faster and feel calmer. When parents don’t understand it, they fill the gap with random advice, YouTube tips, or “what worked when I played,” and suddenly your players are caught between two playbooks.

If you want parental involvement to help (not complicate), the goal is simple: make it easy for parents to support without over-coaching. A few ways to do that:

• Ask parents to support the confidence at home.
  Something like: “Help me make sure your child is feeling energized and ready to attack the practice/game”

• Translate your coaching into ‘home language.’
  Kids don’t need ten swing thoughts or three dribbling cues. Pick one focus per week and explain it in normal terms: what you’re teaching, what it should look like, and one simple way parents can reinforce it (without becoming the coach).

• Replace ‘surprise expectations’ with predictable communication.
  Parents get anxious when they don’t know what matters. A quick weekly note reduces sideline coaching because it answers the big questions: What are we working on? What should we practice at home? What should we stop doing?

• Remember: “more involvement” isn’t always “better involvement.”
  The research points out the risk of excessive involvement creating pressure.
  So you’re not trying to turn parents into trainers—you’re trying to turn them into calm reinforcers.

• Model how you want adults to talk during competition.
  If a coach is frantic, parents get frantic. If a coach is steady, parents usually settle. You set the temperature.

Bottom line: you don’t need parents to be experts. You need them aligned, consistent, and supportive.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
Help Your Youth Athlete Get to the Next Level

Eighth grade and beyond is a perfect time to start thinking about your childs’ step towards athletic advancement beyond high school, not to mention opportunities to enjoy a great education at a reduced cost, or even FREE.

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Soccer Stationary Skills Circuit

Foundation Moves — Drags, Toe Taps, Tic Tacs, and Scissors

Skill Focus: Comfort on the ball, quick feet, basic change-of-direction moves, confidence in tight space

Setup

• Every player has a ball (or 1 ball per 2 players if needed).

• Create a small “home box” for each player using cones (about 3–5 yards wide).

• Work in short rounds: 30–40 seconds on / 20 seconds rest.

How to Run It

• Round 1: Toe Taps
  Quick alternating taps on top of the ball. Start slow → build speed without losing balance.

• Round 2: Drags (Sole Rolls / Pull-backs)
  Use the sole to drag the ball back, then push it forward with the laces. Alternate feet.

• Round 3: Tic Tacs (Inside-Outside touches)
  Inside touch across the body → outside touch back. Keep the ball inside the box.

• Round 4: Stationary Scissors
  Step around the front of the ball (scissor), shift weight, then take one touch away. Reset and repeat both directions.

• Round 5: “Coach Call” Mix
  Coach calls the move every 5–7 seconds (“Toe taps!” “Drags!” “Tic tacs!” “Scissors!”) so players learn to switch quickly.

Tip of the week
Simple Coach-to-Parent System That Keeps Everyone United

This is where a lot of teams accidentally lose parents. Coaches assume parents “get it,” parents assume coaches don’t want input, and then frustration builds silently until it shows up in the stands. A little structure prevents almost all of that.

For Coaches: practical ways to educate parents without creating more work

• Send a weekly “One Thing” message.
  Keep it short:

  • What we’re focusing on (1 skill / 1 behavior)

  • Why it matters

  • A 5-minute at-home option (no special equipment)

• Create a “same language” list (3 cues max).
  If parents use your cues, the kid gets consistent input instead of a new instruction every weekend.

• Offer a parent boundary that feels respectful.
  A simple line like: “Game day is for cheering. If you have questions, I’m happy to talk after the 24-hour cool-down.”
  That protects you and keeps the child from getting coached from three directions.

• Teach parents what not to do (gently).
  Frame it like support: “Too many instructions during play usually makes kids hesitate. Cheering effort helps more than correcting technique from the sideline.”

For Parents: the questions that actually help your kid (and your coach)

• Ask the coach:

  • “What are the top 1–2 priorities for my child right now?”

  • “What’s one cue you want us using at home?”

  • “What’s something you don’t want us coaching during games?”

  • “If my child is struggling, what should we reinforce this week?”

• At home, keep it simple:

  • Ask your kid: “What did coach teach today?” (then let them teach you)

  • Focus on reps, not “fixing” mechanics mid-swing/mid-drill

  • Praise controllables: effort, response to mistakes, listening, being a good teammate

• Know the involvement line:
  The research is clear that parents influence motivation and experience—but that too much pressure can backfire.
  A good rule: support the routine, reinforce the cue, and let the coach coach.
  

Blog Highlight
Parents as Partners

If you coach youth sports long enough, you eventually realize something that’s both obvious and easy to forget in the middle of a busy season:

You don’t actually get that many hours with your players.

You might see them a couple nights a week for practice, maybe a game on the weekend… and then they go back to real life. School. Homework. Screens. Siblings. Other sports. Family trips. Growth spurts. Bad sleep. Good sleep. All of it.

Meanwhile, parents are there for everything around the sport.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
When Coaching Starts Feeling Like Another Full-Time Job

Most coaches don’t burn out because they hate coaching. They burn out because they care… and the season starts stacking stress from every angle: practices to plan, games to manage, kids to develop, parents to communicate with, and a real life outside sports that doesn’t pause just because it’s tournament weekend.

The tricky part is burnout rarely shows up as one big moment. It’s more like death-by-a-thousand-cuts: a few rough games, a few tense conversations, a few nights of bad sleep, and suddenly you’re coaching tight, reacting quicker, and enjoying it less.

A few research anchors that help normalize what you’re feeling:

• A national survey reported by ESPN (based on U.S. Center for SafeSport work) found many youth-sport coaches feel burned out, with managing parents ranking among the top reasons coaches consider leaving or quit. (espn.com)

• SafeSport’s 2025 Coaches Survey key findings reported that among coaches who experienced verbal harassment/abuse, 56% said the source was most often parents of athletes. (uscenterforsafesport.org)

• In NCAA research on coaches (2023), about one-third reported they “constantly” or “most every day” experienced mental exhaustion, feeling overwhelmed, and sleep difficulties. Different level than youth sports, but the pressure pattern is familiar. (ncaa.org)

• Research on volunteer youth coaches has also found stress commonly comes from demands of their main employment, family time tradeoffs, and limited time to plan activities—basically the exact “not enough gas in the tank” problem. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
Burnout Doesn’t Start With Anger - It Starts With Fatigue

Here’s the part a lot of good coaches miss: burnout is often less about motivation and more about your nervous system being overloaded. When you’re tired, your patience shrinks. Your “buffer” disappears. And small things (a kid not listening, a missed assignment, a parent comment, a ref call) feel bigger than they should.

It’s also completely normal. Every leader has stretches where they feel tapped out. The goal isn’t to pretend you’re always energized. The goal is to notice the early warning signs and adjust before you become the version of yourself you don’t like.

Common signs you’re slipping into coaching fatigue (and not just “having a bad day”):

• You’re more irritable than usual… not just at games, but at home too.

• You dread practice instead of looking forward to it.

• You’re over-coaching everything (talking nonstop, correcting every rep) because you feel out of control.

• You feel emotionally flat after wins and overly angry after mistakes.

• You’re sleeping poorly, thinking about the team constantly, or replaying conversations in your head.

• You start avoiding parent communication because you “can’t do one more thing.”

A good reframe: fatigue is a signal, not a failure. It’s your body telling you to tighten the plan, simplify the expectations, and protect your own capacity so you can show up the way your team needs.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
You’re Kid Could Have Scholarships Waiting

Eighth grade and beyond is a perfect time to start thinking about your childs’ step towards athletic advancement beyond high school, not to mention opportunities to enjoy a great education at a reduced cost, or even FREE.

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Stay On Your Feet Circuit (8-10 min)

This is a fast, fun circuit that builds balance, body control, and athletic movement—without needing fancy equipment. It also doubles as a great warm-up because it wakes up ankles, hips, and core stability (the stuff that helps prevent awkward falls and non-contact tweaks).

Setup:
Set up 5 stations in a loop using cones (or any markers). Put 2–4 kids at each station.

• 30–40 seconds work / 15–20 seconds rotate

• Run 1–2 rounds depending on time and age

Station 1: Single-Leg Cone Hops (Forward)

• Line up 4–6 cones (or space markers) in a straight line.

• Hop over each cone on one leg down and back.

• Switch legs next round (or halfway).

Station 2: Zig-Zag Cone Sprint (Control > Speed)

• Set cones in a zig-zag pattern (6–8 cones, 3–5 yards apart).

• Players weave through quickly while staying low and balanced.

• Make it a “race” but only if they keep control (no wild cutting).

Station 3: Lateral Shuffle Cone-to-Cone (Quick Feet)

• Two cones 5–7 yards apart.

• Shuffle side-to-side touching each cone line with the outside hand.

• No crossing feet (true shuffle).

Station 4: Single-Leg Balance Reach (Clock Reaches)

• One cone on the ground as the “center.”

• Stand on one leg and reach the free foot to tap the ground like a clock: 12–3–6–9.

• Switch legs after one full cycle.

Station 5: Forward Lunge + Twist Walk (Mobility + Core)

• Create a 10–15 yard lane.

• Players step into a controlled lunge, then rotate their upper body toward the front knee, stand tall, and step forward to repeat.

Tip of the week
Simple Coach Self-Care That Actually Fits Real Life

“Self-care” can sound like bubble baths and journaling… which is nice, but not always realistic in the middle of a season. What coaches really need are practical resets: small choices that lower stress, restore patience, and help you coach from clarity again.

A few realistic ways to re-energize:

• Shrink the decision load: use a consistent practice template so you’re not reinventing everything daily.

• Pick two coaching priorities per practice: trying to fix everything is a fast path to frustration.

• Protect a communication boundary: no game-day debates; respond within 24 hours; weekly update message.

• Do a 90-second reset before practice/games: slow breath + shoulders down + decide today’s focus.

• Delegate one thing: warm-up, a station, setup, parent logistics—anything that removes weight from your plate.

• Build one “no sports” pocket weekly: even an hour with no team talk helps more than you think.
  

Blog Highlight
The Real Secret To Avoiding Burnout in Youth Sports

Let’s be honest—youth coaching can feel like the best thing you do all week… and also the thing that drains you the fastest.

One day you’re watching a kid finally “get it” for the first time and you’re thinking, this is why I coach. The next day you’re juggling practice plans, late cancellations, parent texts, a kid melting down over a mistake, and a game where the sideline energy is louder than the players. You get home and realize you still haven’t eaten a real meal, you’re replaying decisions in your head, and you’re already thinking about the next practice.

That’s not weakness. That’s the emotional load of coaching.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
You’re Not A Bad Coach for Getting Frustrated

If you coach long enough, frustration is basically guaranteed. A kid won’t listen. A player melts down. A parent wants answers mid-game. A ref misses a call. The scoreboard gets weird. Your brain starts running hot… and if you’re not careful, frustration turns into anger and you spend the rest of the game coaching from emotion instead of coaching the game.

The goal isn’t to never feel frustration. The goal is to notice it early, manage it on purpose, and keep your leadership steady—because your team is watching you.

A few research anchors that show how common this stuff is (and why it matters):

• In a SafeSport survey of 3,470 coaches (Oct–Nov 2025), more than half of respondents said they were aware of other coaches who swore at adult officials, and nearly 40% said they were aware of coaches who intentionally humiliated officials.

• The same report highlighted a consistent theme: coaches asked for more support in handling family members of athletes—which is basically the polite way of saying, “parents can be stressful.”

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
What to Watch for When Frustration is Building (And Why It’s Normal)

Most coaches don’t go from calm to angry in one moment. It’s usually a slow build—small irritations stacking up until one “tiny” thing becomes the spark. The reason it feels so personal is also simple: coaching is emotional work. You care, you’re responsible for kids, and you’re trying to do it well in a chaotic environment. So yes—frustration is completely normal.

The key is catching it early, because frustration has “tells.” Once you learn yours, you can intervene before your tone changes, your body language spikes, or you say something you spend the drive home replaying.

Common signs you’re starting to coach from frustration (not from clarity):

• Your voice gets sharper or faster (even if you’re “not yelling”)

• You start coaching every rep instead of the one or two things that matter

• You fixate on one player, one parent, or one ref call

• Your feedback turns sarcastic or “personal” (“What are you doing?” instead of “Here’s the fix”)

• You feel urgency in your chest—like you need to control everything right now

• You stop noticing the kids who are doing it right (you only see problems)

Why this is normal (and not a character flaw):

• Stress narrows attention. Under pressure, your brain locks onto threats (mistakes, calls, conflict) and misses the bigger picture.

• Coaches absorb everyone else’s emotions. Kids are nervous, parents are invested, refs are human, and you’re standing in the middle of it.

• The environment rewards emotional reactions. Loud reactions feel like “leadership” in the moment, even when they actually create more chaos.

The big coaching win is learning to stay intense without getting tense. If your intensity stays controlled, it helps your team focus. If it turns emotional, it usually spreads—fast.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
Don’t Miss Out On Scholarships

Eighth grade and beyond is a perfect time to start thinking about your childs’ step towards athletic advancement beyond high school, not to mention opportunities to enjoy a great education at a reduced cost, or even FREE.

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Volleyball: Pass-Build-Finish (Hula Hoop Target)

Skill Focus: Serve-receive passing, communication, passing accuracy to target, resetting after mistakes

Setup

• Put a hula hoop on the floor at the setter target zone (front-center, a few feet off the net—where you want your best passes to land).

• 3 passers in serve-receive on one side.

• A coach/server on the other side with a bucket of balls.

• Optional: a setter at the net to catch/quick-set (or a coach standing near the hoop).

How to Run It

• Coach initiates with a controlled serve or toss.

• Passers must call it (“Mine!”) and pass with the goal of landing the ball into the hula hoop (or at least “touching hoop area” for younger kids).

• If the pass hits the hoop/lands in it, the coach (or setter) immediately sends a free ball back and the group plays 3 touches (pass–set–controlled hit/roll).

• If the pass misses the hoop, you still play it out—but the “bonus” free ball only happens on hoop passes.

• Rotate passers every few reps to keep volume high and energy up.

Coaching Tips

• The hoop makes feedback instant: kids see what “good location” means without you talking for five minutes.

• Start with a generous rule for younger teams: “within one step of the hoop” counts. Tighten it as they improve.

• Remind passers: feet first, platform second—most misses are from reaching instead of moving.

• Keep the drill moving. Passing improves through reps and rhythm, not long pauses.

Tip of the week
Simple Tools to Manage Coach Frustration in Real Time

You don’t need a meditation retreat. You need a couple of “sideline tools” that work in the noise of a game and the mess of a practice. Here are a few that are practical and easy to repeat.

1) Use a 10-second “Reset Routine” (same every time)
Pick something you can do without anyone noticing:

• One slow inhale, longer exhale

• Relax jaw/shoulders (most coaches don’t realize they’re clenched)

2) Coach in “one correction + one encouragement”
When you’re frustrated, you tend to pile on instructions. Instead, give:

• One actionable fix (“Get your feet set before the throw.”)

• One confidence builder (“You’re in the right spot—now finish it.”)
  It keeps your coaching clean and stops your tone from drifting into anger.

3) Separate what you can control vs. what you can’t—out loud
This is a pressure release valve. When something unfair happens, label it and move:

• “We can’t control the call. We can control our response.”
  That line helps you and it helps the kids.

4) Parent and ref boundaries that protect your nervous system

• Choose a time to talk with parents that is not during competition (before/after, or 24-hour rule).

• If a ref interaction is necessary, make it short, neutral, and single-point: “Can you watch off-ball contact?” Then walk away.
  It’s not about being passive—it’s about staying effective.

5) Do a quick post-game “frustration audit” (2 minutes)
This is how you actually get better at managing it:

• What triggered me?

• What did I do that helped?

• What’s one adjustment I’ll use next time?
  Most coaches repeat the same frustration patterns because they never name them.

A mindset that helps: frustration is information. Anger is leakage. You want to use the information without leaking it all over your team.

Blog Highlight
Coaching Through Frustration: How to Stay Steady With Players, Parents, and Yourself

You’re going to have days where the kids can’t stop talking during instructions. You’re going to have practices where it feels like nobody can catch, dribble, pass, or remember the one thing you just said ten seconds ago. You’re going to have games where the ref misses an obvious call, your team gets rattled, and suddenly you can feel the whole sideline tightening up. And yes—at some point—you’re going to have a parent interaction that makes you think, “Why am I doing this again?”.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
This week is different - I want to hear from you!

You signed up for this newsletter and I want to make sure it's providing you what you deserve. So for that reason, I’d love to get your feedback. You’ll find a link to a very short survey (less than 2 minutes to fill out). Your response will enter you in for a chance to win a Coaching Dad stadium blanket and a Coaching Dad hat.

Lets go!

Survey

Like I mentioned above, please take 2 minutes to give me feedback. Your response enters you in for a chance to win some great prizes. I will randomly select 2 winners who will each receive a hat and blanket (pictured below).

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
Your Athlete is Good Enough for a Scholarship

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
The Invisible Part of the Game Is Often the Loudest

Most youth coaches are great at teaching skills you can see: footwork, swing mechanics, passing, positioning. The hard part is the stuff you can’t see—confidence, internal voice, fear of messing up, spiraling after one mistake, or the kid who looks “fine” but plays tight and quiet.

The good news is the mental side isn’t magic. It’s coachable. Not with long speeches, but with simple language, repeatable routines, and a team culture that makes it normal to struggle and reset.

A few research anchors worth knowing as you coach this:

• The American Psychiatric Association notes youth sports participation is often associated with positives like higher self-esteem and lower rates of anxiety and depression, but also acknowledges the modern “over-organization” and pressure can complicate the experience.

• A recent clinical review covers sport-related performance anxiety in young athletes and emphasizes how it can show up in kids and how psychological interventions can help.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
What Mental Struggles Look Like (and How it Changes by Age)

Here’s the tricky part: mental struggles in sports don’t always look like “sad” or “anxious.” A lot of the time, they look like behavior. Avoidance. Anger. Quitting on reps. Overconfidence that’s really a mask. Or the kid who suddenly becomes “the class clown” the moment things get hard.

As a coach, you’re not diagnosing anything. You’re watching for patterns and creating a safe, steady environment where kids can reset and keep learning.

Common signs to keep an eye on (all ages):

• A big dip in effort after one mistake (“spiral behavior”)

• Avoiding the ball / hiding in drills / passing responsibility

• Overreacting to feedback or taking it personally (“I’m terrible”)

• Physical tension: stiff movement, rushed decisions, shallow breathing

• Perfectionism: melts down unless everything goes right

• Uncharacteristic irritability, shutdown, or withdrawal

How it can show up by age group:

Ages 6–9 (little kids, big feelings):
They often don’t have the language to explain what’s happening, so you’ll see it as quick tears, frustration, “I don’t want to play,” or blaming others. They can also attach identity fast (“I’m bad”) because they think in simple labels.

• What helps: short cues, fast resets, lots of “try again” reps, and praise for bravery (attempts) more than outcomes.

Ages 10–12 (comparison starts creeping in):
They begin noticing who’s “good,” who gets attention, and where they rank. Mistakes can feel public. This is where negative self-talk and embarrassment show up more.

• What helps: normalize mistakes, teach a reset routine, and build confidence with measurable “small wins” they can track.

Ages 13–15 (identity + social pressure):
This is where you see more fear of looking foolish, overthinking, and performance anxiety. Kids may look tough on the outside but feel fragile inside. They can also get very coach-sensitive (tone matters).

• What helps: private correction when possible, clear roles, and “process goals” that give them something to focus on besides fear.

Ages 16–18 (stakes feel real):
Playing time, tryouts, recruiting, scholarships, and social status can amplify pressure. Some athletes start playing not to grow, but to avoid failure.

• What helps: consistent standards, autonomy (give choices), and calm expectations that focus on controllables and preparation—plus knowing when to pull in a school counselor, parent, or professional if needed.

One more coaching reality: if you create a team culture where kids only feel valued when they’re producing, you will get tighter athletes. If you create a culture where effort and response to mistakes are praised, you’ll get athletes who can breathe and compete.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
Your Athlete is Good Enough for a Scholarship

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
The B.R.A.V.E. Self-Talk (Mental Drill)

Skill Focus: Positive self-talk, quick emotional reset, confidence language under pressure

Setup:
Circle up your team for 3–5 minutes at the start or end of practice. No equipment needed. You’ll do this fast, the same way, every time.

B.R.A.V.E. = a simple self-talk script kids can remember:

• B — Breathe: one slow inhale, longer exhale

• R — Reset: prepare to reset

• A — Anchor: name one quality/strength

• V — Visualize: a positive outcome

• E — Execute: pick one small thing to do

How to Run It:

• Coach says: “Everyone close your eyes for five seconds.”

• Walk them through B.R.A.V.E. out loud (10–15 seconds per letter).

• Then have them say their Anchor and Execute line out loud (quietly but confidently):

• Finish with a quick team rep: one clap, one word together (“BRAVE”), then go.

Coaching Tips:

• Keep this drill consistent. The power is repetition.

• If a kid is struggling, pull them aside later and help them pick a better Anchor (grounded strength, not a wish).

• Tie it to real moments: before a penalty kick, after an error, before an at-bat, after a turnover.

• Praise usage: when a kid resets well, say it out loud—“That was BRAVE.”

This gives kids a mental routine they can actually use mid-game, when their brain is loud and time is short.

Tip of the week
Tools Coaches Can Use to Build Confidence and Quiet the Negative Voice

You don’t need to turn practice into therapy. What you need are a few “go-to tools” that are short, repeatable, and easy for kids to remember under stress.

1) Coach the reset before you coach the mistake
When an athlete is flooded, teaching doesn’t land. So you reset first, then you correct.

• Reset cues that work: “Next rep.” “Flush it.” “Breathe and go.”

• Keep it the same every time so the brain learns the routine.

2) Give them a script for their internal voice (don’t assume they have one)
Most kids’ self-talk is either random or harsh. Help them replace it with something usable:

• Instead of: “Don’t mess up.”

  • Try: “Keep it simple”

• Instead of: “I’m terrible.”

  • Try: “I’m still learning”

• Instead of: “Everyone’s watching.”

  • Try: “Focus on this one thing”

3) Use “confidence evidence,” not hype
Overconfidence and low confidence often share the same problem: the athlete doesn’t have grounded proof. Build proof.

• After practice, ask: “What’s one thing you did better today?”

4) Teach “fear skills,” not fear avoidance
Fear shows up as playing safe, refusing the ball, or quitting on aggressive plays. Your job is to make fear manageable.

• Start with smaller reps, controlled pressure, and gradually build difficulty.

• Praise the attempt: “You went for it. That’s progress.”

5) Coach sportsmanship like a performance skill
A kid who can’t handle calls, teammates’ mistakes, or opponents will struggle mentally all season.

• Script it: “We respond with composure.”

• Make it visible: celebrate calm reactions as much as big plays.

If you want a deeper resource stack for coaches/parents, the “Youth Athlete Mental Health Playbook” is one example of a guide built specifically to help adults create mentally safer sport environments.

Blog Highlight
How to Build Confident Kids With a Strong Inner Voice

Coaching the mental side of youth sports is one of the best ways to help athletes stay confident, resilient, and consistent under pressure. This blog shares practical, coach-friendly ways to teach positive self-talk, stronger internal voice habits, motivation, and simple reset routines that kids can actually use in games.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
The “Elite” Label Isn’t the Finish Line

If you’ve ever watched tryout week turn into a family stress test, you’re not alone. Youth sports has a way of making normal parents feel like talent scouts and normal kids feel like they’re one bad weekend away from “missing their shot.” And the word that seems to cause the most panic is elite.

Here’s the grounding truth: being on the “elite” team at 9, 11, or even 13 doesn’t come with a guaranteed future. It can be a great environment for the right kid at the right time—but it’s not a direct pipeline to high school varsity, college, or beyond. Development is messy, kids mature at different rates, and opportunities change a lot from year to year.

A few research anchors to keep this conversation honest (without the money side of it):

• The Aspen Institute’s Project Play has reported that the average child spends less than three years playing a sport and quits by age 11, most often because it “isn’t fun anymore.” That’s a useful reminder that early labels don’t matter much if the kid doesn’t stick with the sport.

• The American Academy of Pediatrics has cited that about 70% of youth athletes drop out of organized sports by age 13, and connects dropout to issues like burnout/overtraining and the overall youth sports environment.

• NCAA probability data (last updated April 1, 2024 methodology) shows how selective the pipeline is from high school to NCAA participation. That doesn’t mean “don’t dream”—it means early sorting is a weak predictor and long-term development is what matters.

• Sports medicine research on specialization consistently flags higher degrees of early specialization as a risk factor for overuse injury (and often burnout), which matters when families feel pressured to “pick the elite path” early.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
How Coaches Keep Players Grounded (Even in “Elite” Environments)

Whether you coach the top team in your club or you coach the team that didn’t get the shiny label, your job is the same: build kids. The tricky part is that “elite” can quietly shift the culture from development to identity. Players start to believe their value is tied to a roster, parents start to chase status, and coaches feel pressure to justify the label with constant results.

The best way to keep kids grounded is to keep the standard clear and the message consistent: we’re here to improve and compete, not to attach our confidence to a label.

A few practical ways to do that:

• Coach “habits” more than hype
  Pick 4–6 habits that travel across every level (effort on defense, communication, response after mistakes, first touch/ball security, teammate support). Track those habits weekly and talk about them after wins and losses. That keeps the spotlight on controllables.

• Tell the truth about development out loud
  Say it early in the season and say it again when tryouts approach: kids develop in waves. The best player at 12 isn’t always the best at 16. Roles change. Confidence changes. Bodies change. When a coach says this calmly, it lowers the temperature for everyone.

• Create “growth lanes,” not “status tiers”
  If a player wants to move up, give them a specific plan: “Here are the three skills that will make the biggest difference for you in the next 8 weeks.” That turns ambition into action instead of anxiety.

• Protect the love of the game
  When kids quit early (and both Project Play and AAP have pointed to how common dropout is), it’s often because the experience stops feeling fun and starts feeling like pressure. A grounded team culture keeps intensity without making kids feel trapped.

• Make rest and recovery part of being “serious”
  A lot of the specialization discussion exists because people confuse “more” with “better.” Medical groups have repeatedly cautioned that early, intense single-sport focus can raise overuse injury risk and burnout, and that diversification/rest is often healthier for developing athletes.

Grounding doesn’t mean lowering expectations. It means keeping expectations tied to growth—so kids can chase high standards without turning youth sports into a constant audition.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
Have a Freshman/Sophomore?? Pay Attention!

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Overthrow Backup Drill

Sport: Softball/Baseball

Skill Focus: Hustle awareness, backing up bases, preventing extra bases on overthrows

Setup:

• Use the infield (full field if you can).

• Put players at 1B, 2B, 3B, SS, LF and RF. Add a catcher/coach at home to feed balls.

• Coach has a bucket of balls near home or the mound.

How to Run It:

• Start with routine throws that become intentional “overthrows”.

• Run it in three quick phases so kids learn the responsibility for each base:

  • Overthrow at 1st: throw past 1B → RF backs up 1B and keeps it in front.

  • Overthrow at 2nd: throw past 2B → SS backs up 2B (behind and slightly toward CF).

  • Overthrow at 3rd: throw past 3B → LF backs up 3B (your team rule for this drill).

• Rotate positions every few reps so everyone learns the “backup jobs.”

Coaching Tips:

• Teach one simple habit: the throw is never the end of the play—everyone moves on release, not after it gets by.

• Praise the sprint and positioning: “That backup saved a base” is the exact lesson you want to stick.

Tip of the week
Parents: What “Elite” Usually Means (and What It Doesn’t)

A lot of parents hear “elite” and assume it means: better future. More doors open. Faster path to high school/college. Sometimes it can be a strong environment—better training, stronger competition, more motivated teammates. But in many organizations (especially at younger ages), “elite” often means something simpler: that group is ahead right now, for that club, based on that tryout day, with that coach’s preferences.

Here’s the mindset shift that helps families breathe:

• Elite is a snapshot, not a forecast
  Youth sports is full of early bloomers and late bloomers. Some kids look “behind” at 11 and fly past peers at 14–16 when coordination, strength, and confidence catch up.

• The best question isn’t “Are we elite?” it’s “Are we improving?”
  If your athlete is learning, getting meaningful reps, and gaining confidence, they are not falling behind—regardless of the label on the jersey.

• Your child’s “edge” is often consistency, not status
  Kids who steadily practice fundamentals, compete, and stay coachable over years tend to separate. The families who stay calm usually win the long game.

• Beware the fear-based story
  If the messaging feels like “pick now or you’ll miss your chance,” that’s a red flag. The AAP’s dropout/burnout conversation is a reminder: pressure-heavy environments don’t always produce better athletes—they often produce athletes who are done early.

• Multi-sport and rest don’t mean “less serious”
  Early specialization is not a guaranteed advantage and can carry real risk. For many kids, varied movement, seasons of rest, and different coaching voices can actually make them better athletes long-term.

If your child wants to chase higher levels, awesome—support it. Just don’t let a youth label convince your family that development has a single doorway. It doesn’t.

Blog Highlight
Are Kids Falling Behind If They’re Not on the “Elite” Club Team?

Worried your child is falling behind because they’re not on the “elite” club team? This blog breaks down why early team labels don’t predict high school or college success, and what actually matters more for long-term athlete development—reps, confidence, great coaching, and keeping the love for the game.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
Winning Is a Great Goal…It Just Can’t Be the Only One

Winning gets a bad rap in youth sports because people confuse competing hard with making kids feel like the scoreboard decides their worth. The truth is: learning to chase a goal, handle pressure, bounce back from losses, and celebrate progress is part of what makes sports valuable. Winning can be a healthy target when it lives inside a bigger plan—development, effort, teamwork, and resilience.

A few research anchors to frame the conversation:

• The Aspen Institute has highlighted that the average child spends less than three years playing a sport and quits by age 11, most often because “it just isn’t fun anymore.”

• A widely cited Aspen/ESPN write-up on dropout pressure noted that unwanted stress and pressure is a major driver (and that coaching experience/training matters).

• In a national parent survey from the Aspen Institute, parents rated multiple priorities in youth sport settings—fostering a love of sport, making sure athletes have fun, sportsmanship, and winning games all show up as meaningful (i.e., most families don’t want winning erased; they want it put in the right place).

• Recent sport psychology research continues to show that the environment adults create (mastery-focused vs. pressure-only performance climate) is strongly linked to how kids feel and behave in sport.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
Compete to Win…Evaluate to Grow

Good coaches don’t pretend winning doesn’t matter. They just refuse to let the scoreboard be the only report card. The best teams I’ve been around chase wins with real intent—but their daily language and weekly evaluations make it clear that improvement is the true standard. When kids understand that, they play freer, they take coaching better, and they don’t fall apart after mistakes.

A simple approach that works: coach “winning behaviors,” not just winning outcomes. The outcome is the score. The behaviors are what the score is built on.

Here are a few ways to do it without turning your season into a motivational poster:

• Define 3–5 “winning behaviors” and track them like stats
  Examples: sprinting back on defense, talking on the field, finishing plays, next-play response after errors, unselfish decisions.

  • Share these with the team early.

  • Praise them in practice.

  • Call them out in games.

  • Review them after wins and losses.

• Use a two-part postgame recap
  Keep it consistent every time:

  • Result: what happened (short and neutral)

  • Reasons: the 2–3 controllables that decided it (effort, spacing, communication, decision-making, etc.)
    This keeps winning in the conversation—but keeps the learning bigger than the outcome.

• Build “pressure reps” into practice so games feel normal
  Kids melt down in games when the environment suddenly becomes high-stakes. Practice should include small score-based competitions plus reflection:

  • “What helped us win that round?”

  • “What broke down when we lost?”

  • “What’s one adjustment?”
    That’s how you teach kids to compete without spiraling.

• Make playing time feel principled, not emotional
  Nothing destroys a team faster than “winning is everything… unless you’re my favorite.”

  • Be clear: development matters, but effort and attitude matter too.

  • Coach it the same for every kid.

  • Communicate roles with respect.

Bottom line: Coach with a competitive edge, but evaluate with a developmental lens. Kids can handle hard standards. What they can’t handle is feeling like they’re only valued when they help the team win.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
8th Graders to Seniors (GET THEM RECRUITED)

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Soccer Free Space Drill

Sport: Soccer

Skill Focus: Off-ball movement, creating passing angles, supporting the ball carrier, finding open space quickly

Setup

• Use a 20x25 yard grid (adjust bigger for older kids).

• Put 3 attackers vs 2 defenders inside the grid (rotate defenders often).

• Place two small goals on opposite end lines (or use cones as “gates”).

• Coach has extra balls ready to restart quickly.

How to Run It

• Begin with the coach playing a ball into the attacking team.

• The attacker on the ball must look for a pass—while the two off-ball attackers must move immediately to create support options (one short, one wide/deep).

• The goal is to complete 3–5 passes and then attack one of the mini-goals (or dribble through a gate) when space opens.

• If the defenders win it or the ball goes out, restart fast with a new ball from the coach.

Coaching Tips

• Teach the “triangle rule”: the player on the ball should have at least two passing options—your off-ball players are responsible for creating that.

• Give off-ball players simple movement cues:

  • Check in (get close to be an easy pass)

  • Pull away (create space and stretch defenders)

  • Change lanes (don’t stand behind a defender—move to a new angle)

• Coach scanning: before players move, they should take a quick look—“Where is the open space, not just where is the ball?”

• Reward movement that helps the team even if they don’t get the pass. That’s how you build smart players who don’t watch the game—they shape it.

Tip of the week
Parents: Use Winning as a Measuring Stick

Parents can absolutely treat winning as a meaningful goal. Kids should feel what it’s like to work hard for something and accomplish it. The issue is when winning becomes the emotional thermostat of the house—good night if they won, tense night if they didn’t. That’s where kids start to play not to disappoint you instead of playing to grow.

A healthier way is to frame winning as feedback, not identity.

A few parent habits that keep it balanced:

• Celebrate wins, but anchor your praise in what created them
  Instead of only “Great win!” try:

  • “I loved your effort on the plays that didn’t go your way.”

  • “You stayed composed and kept competing.”

  • “Your communication was so much better today.”
    That teaches kids what to repeat.

• After losses, don’t make the car ride feel like a review board
  If you want consistency, use the same 2–3 questions regardless of result:

  • “What felt better today than last time?”

  • “What’s one thing you want to work on this week?”

  • “What did you do that helped the team?”
    Calm questions build athletes. Postgame lectures build avoidance.

• Keep your standards stable (and your emotions smaller than theirs)
  Your kid is already feeling it. They don’t need you stacking more. If they’re upset, you can hold the line without dismissing the feeling:

  • “It’s okay to be disappointed. We’re still proud of your effort. We’ll learn from it.”

• Don’t outsource confidence to the scoreboard
  When kids learn “I’m good when we win,” they get shaky the moment things go wrong. Help them track personal progress too: stronger first touch, better hustle, smarter decisions, improved composure.

The big win for parents isn’t raising a kid who only loves sports when they’re winning. It’s raising a kid who competes hard, handles results well, and keeps showing up.

Blog Highlight
Winning in Youth Sports: It’s Not the Problem (It’s the Way We Coach It)

Winning gets a bad rap in youth sports.

You’ve heard it before: “Stop caring about the score.” “Winning doesn’t matter.” “If you focus on winning, you’re ruining the game for kids.”

And I get where that’s coming from—because we’ve all seen the ugly version of “winning culture.” The coach who treats kids like chess pieces. The parent who turns every car ride into a film session. The team where one mistake feels like a crime and kids play tight because they’re scared to mess up.

But here’s my position:

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
Kids Don’t Need Perfect - The Need Predictable

If you’ve coached (or parented) for more than five minutes, you’ve seen it: the same kid can look confident one day and completely unsure the next… and a lot of times it’s not talent. It’s the environment. Consistency is what makes youth sports feel safe. Safe doesn’t mean soft. It means kids know what to expect: the standards don’t change based on the scoreboard, the coach’s mood, or which parent is watching.

Consistency also matters on the parent side. When attendance is random, routines get shaky, development gets choppy, and kids start feeling like they’re always “catching up.” This isn’t about being rigid or guilt-tripping families—life happens. It’s about building habits that make the team experience smoother and the kid experience calmer.

A few research anchors worth keeping in mind:

• Coaching behaviors and the overall team “climate” shape young athletes’ motivation and confidence over time.

• Coach–athlete relationship quality is linked to psychological outcomes and performance—how you show up consistently really matters.

• High school sports participation remains massive in the U.S. (over 8 million participants reported recently), which means most families will spend years in team environments where consistency compounds.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
How Coaches Stay Consistent Without Feeling Like a Robot

The best youth coaches aren’t the loudest or the most “motivational.” They’re the ones who are steady. Players don’t have to guess what version of you is showing up today, and that alone lowers anxiety and drama.

A simple way to stay consistent is to be rock-solid on a few standards—and flexible everywhere else. Pick 3–5 non-negotiables and coach them the same way every practice, every game, for every kid. When kids know the rules of the road, they can relax and compete.

Here are a few practical ways to make that happen:

• Choose your “Big 3” standards (and repeat them constantly):

  • Effort: We sprint to spots, we finish reps, we don’t coast.

  • Attitude: We don’t blame, we don’t trash teammates, we respond to feedback.

  • Accountability: Mistakes are expected; how you respond is the standard.

• Be careful with promises (this is where coaches accidentally lose trust):
  Instead of “Everyone will play a ton,” use language that holds up under reality:

  • “Everyone will get meaningful opportunities over the season.”

  • “I’ll communicate roles clearly.”

  • “We’ll measure growth, not just results.”

• Create predictable communication so parents don’t fill in the blanks:

  • One weekly message: schedule + focus points + anything families need to know.

  • Quick clarity on roles: “Here’s what we’re working on and why.”

  • No surprise standards: if it matters, it’s written and said more than once.

• Stay consistent with your tone (especially after mistakes):
  Kids can handle hard coaching. What they struggle with is random coaching. If the feedback is respectful when they fail, they trust you when the stakes rise.

Consistency isn’t about being strict. It’s about being reliable. And reliable coaching keeps kids in the game longer—mentally and emotionally.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
I Have Your Answer to Recruiting!

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Putting Tempo Drill

Skill Focus: Smooth putting tempo, quiet hands, consistent speed control

Setup

• Pick a straight putt (4–8 feet) on a practice green or a flat carpet at home.

• Place a tee/coin as the start spot and another as the target.

• Optional: make a “gate” with two tees just wider than the putter head to help the face stay stable.

How to Run It

• Have your kid picture a grandfather clock pendulum.

• On the backswing they softly say “tick…” (slow and smooth).

• On the forward stroke they softly say “…tock.” (same tempo—no jab).

• Do 10 putts focusing only on rhythm.

• Step back 2 feet for 10 more (same tempo).

• Step in 2 feet for 10 “confidence” putts to finish.

Coaching Tips

• If “tick–tock” starts sounding rushed, slow it down and shorten the stroke.

• If putts are consistently short, don’t tell them “hit it harder.” Tell them: same tempo, slightly longer tick.

• If they get yippy, do one practice stroke saying tick–tock, then roll the ball.

• Praise the process: “That was smooth” beats “Did it go in?” while you’re building repeatable tempo.

This drill is great with kids because it gives them a simple anchor under pressure: rhythm first, results follow.

Tip of the week
How Parents Reinforce Consistency Without Turning Sports Into a Power Struggle

Parents don’t need to be the “attendance police,” but you do set the household standard for commitment. Kids learn what matters based on what stays consistent at home. The goal is to build a routine that’s sustainable and fair—one that supports the team and respects family life.

A few simple parent moves that make a big difference:

• Make sports a routine, not a debate:

  • Pack gear the night before.

  • Set the same “leave the house” buffer every practice day.

  • Keep pre-practice talk calm and predictable (music, snack, quick check-in).

• Set the expectation: “We show up even after rough games.”
  The biggest attendance drop-offs often happen after embarrassment. That’s when the habit matters most. Your message can be simple:

  • “We committed. We show up. We learn.”

• If you must miss, handle it like a teammate:

  • Tell the coach early (not last minute).

  • Have your kid own a short message when age-appropriate (“Coach, I’m out Thursday—see you Saturday.”).

  • Help your child understand the natural tradeoff: fewer reps may mean slower progress or a smaller role that week.

• Separate commitment from performance:
  Don’t let “how they played” decide “whether they go.” That teaches avoidance. Instead, reward the habit:

  • “Proud of you for showing up and working.”

• Keep consistency sustainable (not exhausting):
  Consistency is not seven days a week forever. Kids need sleep, homework time, and space to be kids. If your family is stretched thin, the best “consistency” might be choosing fewer extras and protecting the core practices and games.

The steady families usually aren’t the ones doing the most. They’re the ones doing the basics—consistently.

Blog Highlight
Consistency: The Coaching Skill That Makes Everything Easier

Consistency is one of the biggest “quiet superpowers” in youth coaching—kids play freer, learn faster, and trust you more when your standards and expectations don’t change every day. This blog breaks down how to coach with clear, consistent habits.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
Club Sports Aren’t the Problem - Overscheduling Is

Club sports can be an awesome thing. Better coaching, more reps, strong competition, friendships, and a place where kids feel like they belong. Where it goes sideways is when the schedule becomes the whole family calendar and the sport becomes the kid’s whole identity. That’s when you start to see the classic stuff: the athlete who’s always sore, the kid who used to love the game but now looks like they’re clocking in for a job, the family that can’t take a weekend off without feeling guilty.

Here are a few research-backed stats that help frame the “why” behind the balance conversation:

• The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that about 70% of kids drop out of organized sports by age 13, and highlights how excessive training and overscheduling can contribute to burnout and decreased well-being.

• The AAP also points out that burnout risk goes up when kids lose free play time and don’t have opportunities for other non-sport activities.

• Research summaries on sport specialization frequently connect early, intense single-sport focus with higher risk of overuse injuries, stress, and burnout, especially when volume is high and recovery is low.

• The youth sports landscape is huge: NFHS reported 8.26 million high school sports participants in 2024–25, which is a reminder that “development paths” vary a lot—there’s no single blueprint that fits everyone.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
Coaches: Make Your Training More Efficient So Kids Don’t Need “More” All the Time

If you’re a coach in a club setting, the best gift you can give families is clarity and efficiency. Most parents aren’t asking for less development—they’re asking for a schedule that doesn’t punish them for having a life outside the sport. The goal is to create a culture where the team trains with purpose, recovers on purpose, and doesn’t treat “always on” as a badge of honor.

• First, tighten the practice plan. A lot of clubs accidentally waste 20 minutes a session with long lines, unclear transitions, or drills that don’t match game situations. If you clean that up, you can get better results in less time. The simple approach: short explanations, more reps, and drills that include decision-making. Kids get more out of 60 focused minutes than 90 minutes of standing around.

• Second, build recovery into the culture. Not as an add-on… as part of development. The AAP is pretty direct that overscheduling and excessive volume can contribute to overtraining and burnout, and it’s a problem when athletes lose free time and non-sport activities. If you want kids to stay in it long-term, you have to treat rest like training. That means planned lighter weeks, respecting off days, and not creating a vibe where kids feel like they’re failing the team if they miss one optional workout.

• Third, communicate your expectations like an adult organization would: what’s required, what’s recommended, and what’s optional. Families can handle a busy season when they know the plan. They melt down when everything feels like a last-minute emergency. The clubs that do this well are the ones where parents say, “It’s intense, but it’s organized.”

• Finally, encourage multi-sport and “off-ramp” time when it makes sense. You don’t have to be anti-commitment to be pro-balance. A lot of the medical guidance you’ll see (including Johns Hopkins’ summary) supports limiting year-round single-sport volume and building in rest periods. Good clubs keep kids improving without making them feel trapped.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
I Have Your Answer to Recruiting!

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Hustle and Dig

Sport: Volleyball

Skill Focus: Defensive effort, digging tough balls, staying in the play after a scramble

Setup

• Use half a court (or full court if you have numbers).

• Put a coach (or strong passer/hitter) at the net with a bucket of balls.

• Place 3 defenders in the back row (rotate after each rep or every 3 reps).

• Optional: put a “target” at the net (setter spot) so defenders try to pop digs up to a consistent area.

How to Run It

• Start with a normal ball (toss or light hit) so the defender gets a standard dig first.

• Immediately send a second ball that requires extra effort: a short tip, sharp angle, or ball that drops quickly in front.

• The defender must pursue, sprawl if needed, and get any playable contact to keep it off the floor.

• Keep reps quick: dig → effort ball → rotate → next rep.

• Progress by mixing locations so players can’t guess (short, deep corner, middle seam).

Coaching Tips

• Teach “first step wins” — effort digs start with reacting early, not diving late.

• Emphasize staying low and balanced so players can move, not just reach.

• Reinforce that the goal isn’t a perfect pass — it’s a second chance (pop it up and let teammates help).

• Encourage a quick reset mindset: one ball doesn’t define the point, but effort often flips it.

This drill builds the habit that tough balls aren’t automatic points — they’re opportunities to outwork the moment and keep rallies alive.

Tip of the week
Parents: Signs You’re in a Good Club (and Red Flags to Watch for)

Most parents aren’t trying to become experts in youth sports politics—they just want to know they’re in a healthy environment. Here are a few practical “green flags vs red flags” that usually tell the story fast.

Green flags (good club behaviors):

• The club can clearly explain the “why” behind schedules, fees, and training expectations (no mystery math).

• Coaches talk about development and recovery. Off days aren’t treated like weakness; they’re treated like part of progress.

• Your kid’s playing time and role are communicated honestly and respectfully, without promises that can’t be kept.

• The club supports multi-sport athletes (or at least doesn’t punish them socially).

• Communication is steady and professional: calendars in advance, clear tournament plans, and transparent policies.

Red flags (things that usually lead to burnout, drama, or regret):

• Everything is urgent, everything is mandatory, and somehow you’re always being told you’re “falling behind.”

• The club uses fear to keep families locked in (guilt, threats about roster spots, pressure to skip other sports).

• Your athlete is constantly sore, constantly exhausted, and the answer is always “push through it.” (That’s how overuse issues pile up.)

• The culture is built around status and comparison instead of growth: kids feel like they’re being evaluated at every moment.

• There’s no real plan—just constant games, constant travel, and the assumption that more equals better.

Your simple parent test: is your athlete getting better and still enjoying the sport most weeks? If the joy is gone and it feels like survival, the schedule is winning.

Blog Highlight
Are Club Sprots a Bad Thing?

Club sports aren’t a bad thing—when they’re done right, they can be an awesome way for kids to improve and compete. This blog breaks down how to spot the difference between healthy club programs and burnout culture. How parents and coaches can protect balance so kids still have room for other things.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
Recruiting Feels Big…Because It Is

If you’re a parent or coach helping a high school athlete through recruiting, you already know this process can get overwhelming fast. There’s the athletic side (film, camps, communication, fit), the academic side (grades, test scores, transcripts), and the emotional side (hope, pressure, silence from coaches, comparison, and timing). The biggest mistake families make is treating recruiting like one big event. It’s not. It’s a long process that rewards planning, consistency, and realistic expectations.

A good recruiting plan does two things at once: it helps your athlete get seen, and it helps your family make smart decisions with time and money. That second part matters more than people realize, because there are a lot of services out there—and not all of them are necessary for every family. Keep reading for my #1 recommended service that will turn the stress of this process into a breeze.

A few numbers and facts worth keeping in mind as you approach recruiting:

• The NCAA notes that nearly 8 million students participate in high school sports in the U.S., and about 530,000 compete as NCAA athletes. That’s a good reminder that recruiting is competitive, and families need a plan—not panic.

• The NCAA’s recruiting probability data (updated April 2024) shows how selective the process can be. For example, NCAA estimates roughly 3.6% of boys basketball players compete at any NCAA level, and only 1.0% reach Division I. The percentages vary by sport, but the overall lesson is the same: fit matters more than chasing one label.

• On the college side, NCAA Recruiting Facts shows there are roughly 204,000 Division I, 133,000 Division II, and 202,000 Division III student-athletes across NCAA schools, which is a helpful way to explain that there are many pathways—not just D1.

• NCSA’s own content notes many families are already spending $3,000–$5,000 per year on club/travel/lessons/training costs, before paying for recruiting help. That’s exactly why families need to find a service that doesn't add too much more.

• For recruiting platforms/services, pricing varies a lot. FieldLevel publicly lists premium tiers from $29/month to $79/month (or annual options), and Stack Athlete publicly lists paid plans from $22.50/month up to higher-touch tiers.

• NCSA publicly lists a free option plus premium tiers (Champion, Elite, MVP), one recent recruiting comparison site estimates NCSA premium packages often land around $1,320–$4,200+, while also listing SportsRecruits at $399/year. Treat those estimates as market guidance.

The big takeaway for parents and coaches: recruiting can absolutely be done well without overspending, but it does require organization, communication, and consistency.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
Help Older Athletes Build a Recruiting Plan They Can Actually Follow

For athletes 15+ (especially sophomores, juniors, and seniors), coaches can make a huge impact by helping them build a recruiting process that feels clear and manageable. Most kids don’t need more pressure—they need a plan. Recruiting gets stressful when it feels vague. It gets productive when it turns into small weekly actions.

• Start by helping the athlete build a target list in three buckets: reach, realistic, and strong-fit schools. This is where coaches can be incredibly helpful because you can offer a grounded view of level and fit. Families often jump straight to dream schools, but athletes need a balanced list that includes programs where they can realistically compete, develop, and enjoy the full college experience. The NCAA recruiting resources also reinforce how structured recruiting rules and timelines are, which is another reason athletes need a plan instead of random outreach.

• Next, help them build a simple weekly recruiting rhythm. Think in repeatable habits, not one-time bursts: update video, send coach emails, research programs, follow up, and track responses. Coaches can support this by setting a “recruiting check-in” once every couple of weeks during season or club ball. Not a long meeting—just a quick touchpoint to ask: Who did you contact? Did you follow up? What schools opened your email or watched your film? This creates accountability without taking over the process.

One of the most useful things a coach can do is help athletes understand the difference between being interested in college sports and being recruitable right now. Those are not the same thing, and kids need honest feedback delivered in a constructive way. The right message sounds like: “Yes, this is possible—but here’s what needs to improve and here’s the timeline.” That keeps hope intact while giving them something to work on.

Coaches should also help athletes prepare their communication habits, not just their highlight clips. A lot of players look good on film but struggle to send a clear email or hold a conversation with a college coach. Spend time on this. Give them a sample intro email. Practice how to introduce themselves after a camp. Teach them how to speak confidently about academics, goals, and what they’re looking for in a program. That kind of preparation goes a long way, and it helps athletes feel more in control.

Finally, remind players that recruiting is not just about “getting offers.” It’s about finding the right fit—athletically, academically, socially, and financially. That mindset reduces panic and helps athletes make better decisions when the process gets noisy.

The Coaching Dad Recommendation
My Absolute Favorite Recruiting Resource!

If your family wants to make the recruiting process feel less chaotic, Athlete Narrative is a strong recommendation that I love! What stands out is how clearly it supports both sides of the process: it helps athletes stay visible and organized, while also giving parents a better way to stay informed without adding pressure.

For athletes, the biggest value is speed and simplicity. Athlete Narrative highlights a quick-build Radar Page (profile) where athletes can share highlights, stats, grades, and key info in one place, plus tools for school research and coach outreach. They also promote fast communication features like personalized coach emails in under 60 seconds and AI support, which can help athletes stay consistent with outreach instead of putting it off. (athletenarrative.com)

For parents, the value is peace of mind and visibility. Their messaging consistently emphasizes “Parent-Approved Efficiency,” with a focus on saving time, reducing stress, and helping families stay aligned during recruiting. You can also set up weekly parent updates, which is a helpful benefit for families who want to support the process without hovering over every step. (athletenarrative.com)

A big bonus for families following The Coaching Dad: you can access Athlete Narrative at a 40% discount—just $15/month. That’s a fraction of the cost compared to many recruiting services on the market, while still giving families a premium, athlete-first experience.

Drill of the week
Point Shot Rebound Traffic Drill

Sport: Hockey

Skill Focus: 

Net-front positioning, screening the goalie, rebound finishing, point shot placement under pressure

Setup:
Use one offensive-zone net. Place one player at the point (blue line), one passer/coach along the half wall, and 2–3 forwards around the crease (one net-front screen, one rebound player, one support if you have enough players). Add one defender later for light box-out pressure.

How to Run It:

• Begin with the puck on the half wall (coach or player).

• Pass the puck up to the point.

• As the point player receives it, the net-front forward gets into screening position in front of the goalie.

• A second forward slides into a rebound-ready spot on the weak side of the crease with stick on the ice.

• The point player takes a controlled, low shot through traffic (focus on getting it on net).

• Forwards crash the rebound immediately and look for a quick finish.

• Reset and rotate so players get reps at the point and in front of the net.

Coaching Tips:

• Keep point shots low and on net — the goal is a rebound chance, not a highlight slap shot.

• Teach net-front players to screen without drifting too far away from the crease.

• Rebound players should arrive with balance, stick down, and hands ready.

• Emphasize timing — net-front traffic should be set as the point shot is released.

• Remind players the first shot is the setup; the rebound is often the real scoring chance.

This is a great game-like drill for teaching players how to create offense in traffic and score the “dirty goals” that win games.

Tip of the week
What Parents Can Be Doing Right Now to Help

Parents play a huge role in recruiting, but the most effective parents aren’t the loudest ones—they’re the most organized and steady. Your job is not to run the process for your athlete. Your job is to help them build a process they can own.

• The first thing parents should do is help their athlete create a recruiting home base. That can be a simple spreadsheet, notebook, or shared doc with columns for schools, coach contacts, dates emailed, follow-up dates, camp dates, and notes. This sounds basic, but it’s one of the best ways to reduce stress. Recruiting gets emotional when everything lives in someone’s head. It gets easier when it lives in a system.

• Second, make sure the foundation is in place before spending money. That means a solid player profile, usable video, current contact info, academic info, and a short intro message. A lot of families spend on premium recruiting tools before the athlete has a strong profile or good film. The platform can’t fix weak preparation. Build the basics first, then decide if a paid tool is worth it for organization, messaging, or accountability support.

• Third, help your athlete learn how to follow up without feeling awkward. Most recruiting communication is not a one-and-done message. It’s a series of respectful touchpoints. Parents can support this by helping their athlete create a follow-up routine: send a note, update with new film, share schedule changes, and thank coaches after camps. Consistency matters more than sounding perfect.

• Fourth, keep your emotions out of the driver’s seat. Recruiting can trigger comparison fast—especially when other families post commitments early or talk big. Stay focused on your athlete’s path, timeline, and fit. Every sport is different. Every position is different. Every athlete matures at a different pace. The fastest commitment is not always the best commitment.

• Finally, be smart with recruiting spending. If your family is already paying for club, travel, lessons, and camps, pause before layering on expensive recruiting packages. Ask: What specific problem are we solving? Do we need structure? Better organization? Messaging tools? Coach exposure?
  

Blog Highlight
Recruiting: A Real-World Guide for Coaches and Parents

This blog breaks down practical recruiting tips, timelines, outreach strategies, budgeting insights, and tools families can use to help student-athletes find the right college fit. It’s a helpful guide for anyone looking to better understand college sports recruiting, athlete exposure, and how to support young athletes through the process.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
Big Feelings Hit Fast

Frustration is one of the most common emotions you’ll see in youth sports—because kids care, the game moves quickly, and their brains are still learning how to hit the “reset button” under pressure. A bad hop, a missed swing, a teammate mistake, a close call… and suddenly the mood flips. The goal isn’t to eliminate frustration (good luck). The goal is to teach kids how to recover from it—quickly, safely, and in a way that keeps them engaged and confident.

A few research anchors to frame why this matters: nearly 1 in 5 U.S. children ages 3–17 have ever been diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral health condition, and irritability/frustration can be a common reason families seek support. In sport settings, frustration also shows up physically (tight shoulders, rushed movement, shallow breathing), which can make the next play harder. The takeaway: treating emotional regulation like a coachable skill isn’t “extra”—it’s part of helping kids compete and enjoy the game.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

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Insight of the week
Coach the Reset Like a Skill

The biggest mistake coaches make with frustrated players is waiting until the blow-up and then trying to “talk them out of it.” When a kid is heated, they’re not in learning mode. The better approach is to create a simple, repeatable reset routine and practice it the same way you practice throwing mechanics or base running. Consistency is what builds trust—and calm.

Start by separating the emotion from the behavior. A quick, steady line like, “It makes sense you’re frustrated—you care,” lowers the temperature without rewarding the reaction. Then you immediately pivot to what control looks like: “We can be frustrated and still stay in control.” That’s the standard, and kids respond well when the standard is clear and fair.

Next, give your team a one-sentence cue they can lean on when things go sideways: “Next pitch,” “Flush it,” “Reset and ready.” Keep it short on purpose. The cue is the trigger for the routine, not a motivational speech.

Then coach the body first: one slow inhale, longer exhale; shoulders down; hands unclench; eyes on one simple target for two seconds. This interrupts the spiral and gives them something concrete to do instead of spiraling into self-talk or blame. And whenever possible, correct privately—not publicly. Public correction often turns frustration into embarrassment, and embarrassment is usually the fast lane to escalation.

Finally, get good at spotting the early warning signs: slumped posture, rushed throws, snapping at teammates, “I can’t,” “This is stupid,” equipment tosses, quitting on reps. If you intervene early with a calm cue or a quick breather, you prevent the “full eruption” and keep the athlete in the game—mentally and emotionally.

Drill of the week
Bunt and Charge

Sport: Baseball / Softball

This one is a staple because it teaches quick reactions, clean fielding on the run, and making the “easy out” under pressure — which is exactly what bunts try to mess up.

Set up: Put players at 3B, P, 1B, and a catcher if you have one (optional but helpful for communication). Coach stands at home plate with a bucket of balls. 1B starts on the bag. Everyone else starts in normal ready position. If you don’t have a catcher, the coach can call “BUNT!”

How it works (walk-through speed first, then build pace):
Coach calls “BUNT!” and rolls (or soft-tosses) a bunt in fair territory. If you want to actually use a batter to bunt the ball, that works best. The fielder closest to the ball charges, fields it under control, and makes the throw to 1B for the out. After each rep, players hustle back to their spot and the coach fires the next bunt quickly to keep it game-like. Mix where you place the bunt: down the 3B line, straight to the pitcher, and down the 1B line.

Coaching points that make the drill actually work:

• First two steps win: The moment they hear “BUNT,” their feet move. No hop-step, no watching.

• Get there fast, field it slow: Sprint to the ball, then break down with short steps so they don’t stab at it.

• Two hands on the pickup: Glove gets it, throwing hand secures it — especially important on bad hops.

• Throw to the chest: Don’t rush a wild throw. A clean, accurate throw beats a fast one.

• 1B is loud and steady: Teach 1B to give a clear target and talk (“Here! Here!”). It calms the whole play down.

Progressions (to keep it fun and prevent drill fatigue):

• Add a runner: Put a runner at home and have them sprint on contact so it feels real (rotate runners).

• Call the play late: Coach waits an extra half-second before yelling “BUNT” so fielders must read and react instead of guessing.

• Timed challenge: How many clean bunt outs can you get in 60 seconds with no bobbles and accurate throws?

• Two-ball chaos (advanced): Coach rolls a second ball immediately after the first to force quick reset and communication (great for older / experienced teams).

Tip of the week
Parents Build Calm Outside of the Game

Parents have a huge advantage: you can work on frustration skills when the environment isn’t loud, competitive, and emotionally charged. Think of it like this—games reveal the problem, but home is where you train the solution. The goal is to help your kid recognize frustration sooner, recover faster, and keep their confidence intact even when they struggle.

One of the best strategies is doing “frustration reps” in low-stakes settings. Pick small challenges that create mild struggle: a tricky puzzle, a dribbling pattern, bounce-catch with the non-dominant hand, hitting a smaller target off a tee, juggling, jump rope—anything that’s tough but doable. When you see frustration rise, don’t rescue them immediately. Instead, you coach the reset: one breath, one cue, one more try. They’re learning that discomfort doesn’t mean danger, and struggle doesn’t mean failure.

Teach a quick 10-second routine they can use anywhere: inhale, longer exhale, say the cue (“Next play”), do one physical action (adjust the helmet, tap the bat, tug the glove), and focus eyes on one target for two seconds. The physical action matters because it gives them something that feels like a “switch” they can flip.

One more big one: avoid the post-game autopsy in the car—especially with frustration-prone kids. The car ride can be peak emotion. Keep it simple: “I love watching you play,” and let the nervous system come down. Later, when they’re calm, ask one helpful question: “What was one moment you got frustrated—and what reset could you use next time?” You’re coaching reflection, not replaying pain.

And praise recovery more than results. Hits and wins are great, but if that’s the only praise they hear, mistakes feel like identity-level failure. Notice things like: “You reset fast,” “You stayed a good teammate,” “You tried again even after that tough inning.” That’s the stuff that actually changes behavior.

Blog Highlight
Coaching Kids Who Get Easily Frustrated

Every coach knows this kid.

They miss a shot and their shoulders drop like somebody unplugged them. They boot a soccer ball and immediately start talking to themselves like they’re their own worst enemy. They strike out, throw the bat down, and you can almost feel the rest of the inning slipping away because now they’re not just playing the game—they’re fighting their emotions inside the game.

If you’ve got a player who gets easily frustrated, you’re not dealing with a “bad kid” or a “problem attitude.” Most of the time, you’re dealing with a young athlete whose feelings are bigger than their tools. They care. They want to do well. They hate messing up. And they haven’t learned how to recover quickly when things don’t go their way.

So let’s talk about what actually helps, in real coaching terms. Not “just toughen up.” Not “calm down.” But concrete, repeatable coaching strategies that help athletes regulate, reset, and compete with confidence.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Intro
Keeping Kids From Burning Out

If you’ve ever looked at your kid halfway through a season and thought, “They used to love this… what happened?” — you’re not alone. Youth sports burnout usually isn’t one big dramatic moment. It’s the slow drip of too much, too serious, too often, with not enough recovery, variety, or ownership for the athlete.

Here are a few stats and research-backed signals worth paying attention to:

• Many kids step away from sports because it stops being fun, and long-term participation trends show kids often don’t stay in a sport for very long—Aspen Institute Project Play reports the average child plays a sport for less than three years and often quits by around age 11.

• American Academy of Pediatrics notes that the true prevalence of burnout isn’t fully known, but they cite evidence including a Swedish study estimating up to ~9% of elite adolescent athletes meeting burnout criteria, and they emphasize the role of overtraining/under-recovery in driving burnout.

• Early specialization is consistently linked with higher risk of overuse injuries and increased psychological stress — which can be the on-ramp to burnout and eventual dropout.

• The National Athletic Trainers' Association has been blunt about it: pushing year-round, single-sport training too early increases injury risk and can reduce the odds of kids sticking with sports long-term.

The big takeaway: burnout isn’t a “toughness problem.” It’s usually a load management + joy management problem.

Please share this newsletter with a parent or coach. Encourage them to sign up. It’s a small ask, but it can have a big impact on helping us grow this really awesome community.

Follow us on the social channel of your choice (click on icons at the end or search @the_coaching_dad) and visit www.thecoachingdad.com.

Lets go!

Insight of the week
Coach Influence

Coaches have more influence on burnout than we sometimes want to admit — not because we’re “causing” it, but because we control the climate. If the environment feels like a job, kids treat it like a job… and eventually quit like a job.

A few high-impact ways to keep players energized (in-season and out-of-season):

1) Coach the kid, not just the sport.
Burnout shows up faster in kids who feel like they’re only valued for performance. Build a team culture where effort, curiosity, and being a good teammate get noticed out loud. Make it normal to ask, “What felt fun today?” not just “Did we win?”

2) Separate “development” from “pressure.”
You can ask for focus and still keep things light. The difference is how you respond to mistakes. If every mistake triggers a lecture, athletes start playing tight and associating the sport with stress. A simple rule: correct quickly, then give them a rep to apply it, then move on.

3) Rotate roles and reduce monotony.
Same lines, same drills, same spots in scrimmage = mental fatigue. Give kids a reason to stay mentally engaged: switch partners, switch positions during practice segments, add constraints games (“must make 3 passes before a shot”), or give them a “challenge role” for the day (rebound captain, communication captain, hustle captain).

4) Your calendar is a message.
If the schedule says “more, more, more,” kids hear “this is never-ending.” Even during peak season, weave in micro-recovery: shorter segments, water breaks that aren’t rushed, one low-stakes “fun reps” period each practice. Burnout thrives when there’s no exhale.

5) In the offseason: build athletes, not specialists.
Offseason doesn’t have to mean “no growth.” It can mean different growth. Research and position statements consistently support sport sampling and movement variety for long-term development and enjoyment.

Drill of the week
Give and Go

Sport: Basketball

This one is a staple because it teaches spacing, timing, and playing with teammates — and it feels like “real basketball” fast, which helps keep practices fresh.

Set up: Put one line on the wing (Player A) and one line at the top (Player B). If you have cones, place one cone at the wing and one at the top to help kids visualize spots. One ball starts with Player A on the wing.

How it works (walk-through speed first, then build pace):
Player A starts on the wing with the ball and passes to Player B at the top. The instant Player A passes, they cut hard to the basket (show hands like a target). Player B catches, takes a quick look, and returns the pass to Player A cutting to the rim. Player A catches on the move and finishes with a layup.

Coaching points that make the drill actually work:

• Pass-and-go mentality: The cut starts immediately after the pass — no standing and watching.

• Cut with purpose: Teach kids to cut “hip to hip” past a pretend defender (even if there isn’t one). A lazy cut kills the timing.

• Eyes up on the catch: Player B should catch ready to pass (knees bent, ball in a strong position).

• Lead the cutter: If Player A is fast, B should “lead” them slightly so A doesn’t have to stop.

• Finish rules: For younger players, require one-foot takeoff or “inside foot, outside foot” to build safe finishing habits.

Progressions (to keep it fun and prevent drill fatigue):

• Add a defender: Put a light defender on the cutter who gives 50% pressure.

• Two finish options: Layup OR short pull-up (if they cut and the lane “closes”).

• Scoring game: Teams of 3. How fast can your group make 10 give-and-go finishes with zero dropped passes?

Tip of the week
Options to Help Relieve Burnout

If you want kids to “take a break” without feeling like they’re falling behind, give them an offseason plan that feels like freedom — not another season.

Here are a few practical options that work for both parents and coaches:

Option A: The 2–1–2 rule (easy and realistic).
For 6 weeks:

• 2 days/week: their main sport (low intensity, skill-focused)

• 1 days/week: a different sport or activity (soccer, swimming, martial arts, flag football, anything)

• 2 days/week: unstructured play (bike, driveway games, park runs, “go be a kid”)
  That “unstructured play” piece matters more than most people think — it’s where kids recover mentally.

Option B: Keep the sport, change the format.
If they love basketball but are cooked on “practice”:

• 20 minutes of HORSE with a parent

• driveway free throws with a playlist

• “3 spots, 5 makes each” shooting game
  Same skill, totally different vibe.

Option C: Let the athlete choose the goal.
Instead of “You need to get better at defense,” try: “What’s one thing you’d like to feel more confident about next season?”
Autonomy is a burnout antidote. When kids feel ownership, effort doesn’t feel forced.

Option D: Watch for the early burnout tells (and treat them like info, not attitude).

• they dread going (not just “I’m tired today”)

• they’re irritable during/after practice

• they complain of vague aches more often

• they’re mentally checked out or unusually emotional
  These are often “load too high” signals — not “bad mindset” signals.
  

Blog Highlight
Is Your Young Athlete Burning Out?

Youth sports are supposed to be fun. They’re supposed to build confidence, friendships, resilience, and joy. But somewhere along the way, for some kids, that joy starts to fade. Practices feel heavy. Games feel stressful. The excitement that once filled the car ride to the field turns into silence — or worse, resistance.

If you’re a parent reading this and thinking, “Something feels off,” you’re not alone.

Burnout in youth athletes is becoming more common, especially as sports become more competitive, more specialized, and more year-round. The good news? Burnout is not a permanent condition. With awareness and thoughtful support, parents can help their child reset, recover, and rediscover why they loved playing in the first place.

Let’s unpack what youth sports burnout actually looks like — and what you can do about it.

Gear up
Start Looking the Part!

Every week I release new products in my Etsy store. My goal is to bring a little style back into the youth sports game. You’ll find things for coaches, parents and kids.

The Volunteer Coach Academy
Stop Guessing and Really Help Your Team Improve

You’ve seen the tips and tools I share each week—now imagine everything you need to coach with confidence, all in one place. I’ve built a complete course designed specifically for volunteer and parent-coaches to help you feel prepared, supported, and ready to lead. Whether you’re stepping on the field for the first time or just want to get better for your kid’s sake, this course was made for you.

Oh and if you aren’t ready for the course yet, still check out the link to learn more because there’s a free Coach’s Guide that you can start using instantly.

Book highlight
For Coaches, Parents and Youth Athletes

The Constant Coach

Get this for the coach in your life as it provides coaching guidance and insights one day at a time throughout the entire year.

Stories For Young Athletes

Do you have an Young athlete who’s afraid of getting hit by a pitch or who maybe isn’t quite as aggressive on the soccer field as they could be? This book helps kids with a variety of circumstances, in a lot of different sports, through various stories that your child can relate to. It’s perfect for kids 7-11!

Featured Coaching Resources
Aggression and Anxiety Guides

I just released two new guides designed to make your coaching easier and your players more confident:

1. The Aggression Guide
Perfect for the child who plays great at home but hesitates in games. This guide gives you simple, practical strategies to help players be more assertive, engaged, and confident—without pressure or yelling.

2. Calm Under Pressure
A quick, powerful guide for helping young athletes manage anxiety, nerves, and fear of mistakes. You’ll learn what to look for, what to say, and how to support kids during tough moments.

Content
Other Free Content

You might be new to coaching a team or sport. You may be a grizzled coaching veteran. Either way, check out the content section of thecoachingdad.com. You’ll find resources that cover a large number of sports, including game refreshers, position breakdowns, injury management, practice ideas and more.

Engage
Email Us

Did you miss a previous newsletter? Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Looking for broader insights on a particular topic? Send us an email at Brad@TheCoachingDad.com

Newsletter Sign Up
Those not already receiving The Huddle, click below. You can also access previously published newsletters from this link.

The Huddle

A weekly newsletter from The Coaching Dad.

thecoachingdad.beehiiv.com/subscribe