Complete Soccer Coaching Guide for Youth Players Ages 6-16
COACHES AND PARENTS OF SOCCER PLAYERS OF ALL LEVELS, THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU!
This revised and updated coaching manual provides everything needed to run a successful youth soccer team, regardless of coaching experience or competitive level. Written by Jim San Marco and Kurt Aschermann, experienced educators and coaches, this illustrated guide covers every aspect of youth soccer coaching from roster building to post-game logistics.
What This Soccer Coaching Manual Covers
The book delivers practical instruction across all essential coaching areas:
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SETTING UP THE FIRST PRACTICE - Organizational strategies for new teams
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TEACHING THE BASICS - Fundamental soccer skills and techniques
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DEVELOPING SKILL THROUGH DRILLS AND EXERCISES - Age-appropriate training activities
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LEARNING THE RULES - Complete game regulations and officiating
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ENCOURAGING FAIR PLAY AND HEALTHY COMPETITION - Building sportsmanship and team values
Coaching Philosophy: Fun, Active, Team-Focused
The authors emphasize that youth soccer should prioritize enjoyment, physical activity, and learning about team spirit and competition. This approach helps build teams that play well, stay healthy, and develop positive attitudes toward sports, regardless of win-loss records.
Updated Content for Modern Coaching
This revised edition includes new drills, updated diagrams, and additional photos to demonstrate proper techniques and training setups. The friendly, easy-to-use format makes it accessible for both seasoned professionals and first-time coaches.
About the Authors
Jim San Marco served as teacher, athletic director, and coach at Edgemont High School in Scarsdale, New York, finishing his eighteen-year soccer coaching career with a 211-67-24 record. He was recognized as Section I Soccer Coach of the Year and New York State Section I Athletic Director of the Year, and served as a New York State soccer coaching clinician and Physical Education Convention speaker.
Kurt Aschermann is a physical educator, coach, and coauthor of multiple coaching guides including Coaching Kids to Play Baseball and Softball. A graduate of Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts, he is a sought-after speaker, workshop leader, and consultant in youth sports education.
Whether coaching recreational leagues or competitive teams, this comprehensive resource answers every coach's questions about developing young soccer players.
