(How All Adults Can Create a Positive Soccer Environment)
In youth soccer, every game is more than just what happens on the field. The energy and actions of the adults—whether they’re family members, mentors, officials, or simply supporters—shape the experience for young athletes. After reading Sideline Wisdom and Game Time is Parent Time, Austin Gomez, retired USSF National Referee Instructor and Assessor, shared his thoughts on how adults can ensure soccer remains a positive and enjoyable experience for kids.
Soccer is a journey of growth, filled with lessons from every pass, dribble, and goal attempt. So, how can we, as adults in their lives, foster an environment where players thrive, learn, and have fun? Let’s explore some key sideline wisdom that all of us can embrace.
🎉 Celebrate Effort, Not Perfection
It’s easy to get caught up in the wins and scores, but for young players, soccer is about trying new things, making mistakes, and learning. As adults—whether standing on the sidelines, managing the game, or simply watching from the stands—our role is to encourage effort over perfection.
When a child makes a mistake, focusing on what they did right or giving their best is essential. Cheering for their effort, rather than pointing out errors, builds confidence and keeps them engaged. Simple words like “Great hustle!” or “Keep it up!” can shift players’ mindset and keep their love for the game alive.
🗣️ Positive Comments Only—Everyone’s Listening
Just as coaches are role models, so are all the adults at the game. Whether you’re a family member, supporter, or referee, the words you choose set the tone for the experience.
Positive feedback helps keep the game fun and supports kids’ development. This goes beyond just cheering for a specific player—praising teamwork, sportsmanship, or recognizing a well-played moment shows that soccer is more than just winning. Your kind words toward officials, too, contribute to a positive atmosphere where everyone feels valued.
Stay Engaged and Supportive 😊
It’s tempting for adults to view the game passively, but active engagement (Read: Game Time is Parent Time) can make a big difference. Observing closely and noting small victories—like a well-executed pass or a solid defensive move—helps shift the focus from the scoreboard to individual player development.
📋 Tip for Everyone: Take a mental or written note of positive actions on the field. Did a player recover well after a mistake? Did they show resilience? Offering specific praise after the game, such as “I noticed how hard you worked on defense,” encourages kids to keep improving and feel proud of their effort.
⚽ Playing the Game Is the Best Teacher
The best soccer lessons come from the game itself. Whether winning or losing, every match teaches young athletes about strategy, teamwork, and resilience. As adults, it’s important to let them learn by playing without overwhelming them with pressure or expectations.
When players know they’re supported regardless of the result, they are free to enjoy the process and develop naturally. Instead of focusing solely on outcomes, encourage kids to reflect on what they’ve learned. The game itself is one of the greatest teachers they’ll ever have.
📣 Be the Ultimate Supporter
Every adult present at the game, whether helping manage the team or simply watching from the stands, plays a critical role. One of the most powerful ways to contribute is to be a positive and encouraging presence.
Cheer not only for the young athletes but also for good sportsmanship and fair play. Applaud the efforts of officials and volunteers who help make the game possible. Your energy on the sidelines—whether enthusiastic or calm—has a direct impact on the players’ experience, reinforcing the importance of respect and enjoyment over competition.
❌ Avoid Harsh Words—Keep the Game Fun
Negativity can deflate the energy of a game. Harsh words from adults, whether out of frustration at a missed play or dissatisfaction with an official’s decision, affect young players deeply. Maintaining a positive tone is essential to keeping the game enjoyable for everyone involved.
Officials are often young or volunteers, learning the game just like the players. Let’s ensure that soccer remains fun for everyone, from those on the field to those supporting the game. Our actions should reflect the spirit of fairness and encouragement that youth sports aim to foster.
📌Final Thoughts: It Truly Takes a Team
No matter the role you play, from managing the sidelines to simply attending the game, every adult has a part in creating a positive environment for young athletes. By focusing on encouragement, effort, and maintaining a supportive atmosphere, we can ensure soccer remains a fun and enriching experience for all.
Let’s work together to build a community where young players love the game, learn valuable life lessons, and leave every match feeling supported and inspired.
