Helping children develop their sportsmanship

Sportsmanship is such a vital role when engaging in football as not only does it create a friendly and inclusive environment in which to play football, but it also teaches children important life skills.

The benefits of good sportsmanship

The benefits of being a good sportsman/woman are many, from building character, and learning how to function properly in a team to learning about the importance of having respect towards others. Instilling this type of behaviour into children from a young age is vital.

Firstly, it allows children to develop as well-rounded players on the pitch. Not as much in the technical aspects of the game but rather the psychological aspects. For instance, if young players learn how to be a good sportsman/woman it will help them to control their emotions on the pitch better as they will understand how to behave properly. 

Players will learn how to deal with winning and losing and how to prevent their emotions from boiling over. Check out this article over on The Coaching Manual which helps players to deal with the full-time results win or lose.

How can coaches/parents help?

Set a good example

Young players look up to their parents and their coaches, they are always watching and looking for guidance. The way in which parents and coaches conduct themselves on the sidelines, speak to other coaches/parents and their general demeanour should always be setting a good example of sportsmanship. 

Make things fun!

Coaches should definitely be focusing on the technical development of their players so that they are improving year in and year out, however making training sessions fun for players should always be the priority.

If coaches can manage to do this consistently, players will enjoy going to football practice and will in turn have a positive attitude towards the sport. Therefore, they are more likely to behave in a more sportsmanlike manner when things aren’t going as well on the pitch.

Parents can also help to keep football fun for their children with the help of TopTekkers. Encouraging them to use the app and try the fun challenges will not only develop their fundamental football skills but should boost their enjoyment of the sport as they can engage in healthy competition with their teammates and players all around the world.

Download TopTekkers today on Apple or Android and start developing your skills and your sportsmanship!