Coaching Football's "Little Things"

2 books come to mind as I write. I recommend both of them to you!

One, Season of Life by Jeffrey Marxx, I’ve read 3 times and one I’ve just started, Called to Coach by Bobby Bowden. As most of us begin practice next week, these words of wisdom came to mind. You are going to greet kids from all backgrounds and all walks of life when you walk in that locker room next week. They’re going to bring all of their baggage, issues and problems with them as they work to become part of your team! It is important to remember that parental rejection drives children (and teens) to 2 extremes:
1) Rebellion. They rebel out of their need for acceptance. When your players quit school, run away, do drugs, consume alcohol or engage in elicit sex, in many cases they are saying, “I’ll show you!”
2) Compliance. Some kids go in the opposite direction hoping to win approval by trying not to displease a parent… or coach! The desire to please drives them to be perfect. The least little mistake, though, can send them into a tailspin.

A child at any age will do anything, however irrational or self-destructive, to earn and keep the love of parents. Parents are like potters, with the power to mold their child’s behavior, character and course of life. When a teen comes out for football, he usually gives his coach the same status as a parent. You have a big role in your players’ lives. Please take it seriously.