WYC 060 – Youth Soccer – Creed Larrucea talks The only rule you need and PCA’s ELM tree of success

What does it take to be a winning youth coach? Listen in as Creed Larrucea shares stories and discusses his journey to becoming a successful youth sports coach. Creed is a physical therapist in Sacramento, California by day, and a stud youth soccer coach by night.  He coaches youth teams and the local high school team. He is married and has 2 daughters ages 12 and 10. Listen Now:   Listen in ITunes: Itunes link Listen in Stitcher: Stitcher link Quote 'Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out' - John Wooden Coaching your own kids The first key is open communication - ask your kids - 'Do you want me to coach your team?' My Cringe & ‘Ah-Ha’ Moments Inaction - could have started 2 teams since he had great demand for his team - but he didn't have the confidence that he could pull it off  (he since has done this.) Teaching Children & Keeping it Fun Patience and understanding the age-level you are at are key Say less, have them do more - make it fun and have 'hidden' teaching in there Soccer shooting drills: Knockout Bring out different style balls - tennis ball, big huge ball Self-Confidence and teaching kids to achieve peak performance Positive Coaching Alliance's ELM tree of success: Effort - is one of the main things you can control Learning - is what we're here for Mistakes - are normal and part of growth Culture – Discipline/Rewards/Teambuilding Discipline HUGE IDEA #1 One rule: 'Don't let your teammates down' - this one universal rule can apply to almost any situation Have fun games right at the beginning of practice - this is a great way to encourage kids to get to practice on time Rewards Set team goals HUGE IDEA #2 Coach Creed gives effort scores - scores based according to their effort capability The One that Got Away Writing down mistakes is one of the best ways to not let history repeat itself Creed had one girl on his team who had a family member able to attend one of her games for the first time - so he tried to get her extra opportunities - but he didn't really put her in the best position to succeed and probably added pressure to her. Best Stolen Idea When teaching skills - 3 steps: Show how to do it Let them practice with slight opposition Let them practice in game-type setting Using this you can see progress every practice, not just at the end of the year Best Quote/Book Quote: 'Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out' - John Wooden Book: The Double Goal Coach - Jim Thompson from Positive Coaching Alliance Parting Advice Make sure you're winning twice Ready to be an Awesome Youth Coach? Sign up for our free weekly newsletter: