Children’s soccer coach wants youngsters to have as much fun as possible
LYME PARK - Whether it is incredible speed or strength when defending the ball, each budding star can achieve excellence in this coach's eyes.
Every child has a superpower when they are on the soccer field.
This is according to Crusaders Football Club U7 and U13 coach, Thandilizwe Nkosi.
“I tell every player they must have a superpower. If they are fast then that is their superpower, or maybe they are strong and they can protect the ball,” the coach explained.
“I always try to make coaching fun and sometimes a bit competitive, but not too much at a young age.”
Crusaders have had much success in the Rand Central League recently, from U6 to senior level, and this season club manager Angie Skeen aims to finish in the top three in all their leagues.
Passionate and motivational coaches such as Nkosi will help Crusaders if they are to achieve this.
“When I grew up we were just given a ball and told to kick it around,” he added.
“I was never coached with the element of technique that children nowadays have. I try to incorporate that in a fun way in my coaching, such as ensuring they have as many touches at practice as possible so they can be prepared for matches. They must have as much fun as possible, or they will never grow as players and people.”
Nkosi also coaches at the non-profit Ekasi Mighty Eagles Academy in Soweto.
