Positive soccer coaches teach players to respect the game. When players respect the game, the game pays them back with great experiences. The Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) encourages players to follow the R.O.O.T.S. principle. In other words, coaches should teach players to respect the rules, opponents, officials, teammates and self. Here are some ways to do that.

Respect the Rules

Rules define the game of soccer. In fact, FIFA documents these rules as an international standard. Following the rules means fair play. Cheating is one way to disrespect the rules. I encourage my players to respect the rules with a popular saying: cheaters never win and winners never cheat.

Respect Opponents

It is always important to respect opponents, no matter how strong or weak they are. A better team can teach you. A worse team can learn from you. My youth soccer team has been the better and worse team many times. They know what it feels like to win big and lose badly. They also know that a respectful opponent can make any game a positive experience.

Respect Officials

Officials are there to enforce the rules. They try to maintain a fair competition from start to finish. But the officials are human beings; they make mistakes. Frequently complaining about bad calls just distracts you from the game. Players should respect the officials and concentrate on the game itself. At our practices, I play the role of a bad referee. I purposely make bad calls to see how the players react. They quickly learn that complaining just takes them out of the game.

Respect the Team

It is important for players to respect their teammates. Otherwise, teammates will not respect them. Since soccer is a team sport, all players must support each other. When players respect each other, the team plays better. And it becomes a positive and effective soccer environment.

Respect Self

Follow this link:
Positive Soccer Coaching: Five Ways to Respect the Game