How to prevent scorelines of 13-0, 19-1 and 27-0 in youth football was the subject of a recent blog by Jack Walton, FA regional coach development manager.
In the article, Jack stresses the importance of creating competitive balance in youth football to ensure an enjoyable, equal and beneficial learning experience for all involved.
Here, we asked Jack for his 5 top tips for coaches to use to prevent mismatched fixtures.
1. Prevent before cure
You may already have a good idea from looking at the league table and previous results to know whether there may be a mismatch before the game kicks off. Maybe try a quick chat with the other coach before the game to discuss potential strategies to help achieve a more balanced match. You might even contact the coach before the day so that it doesn’t come out of the blue on match day.
2. Play imbalanced numbers
One of the players I currently coach told me that their playground match was always Year 6 v Year 5. “That’s a bit unfair isn’t it” I asked. “No, because there’s ten of us and twenty of them” came the response. How naive of me.
3. Mix the teams up
I recall a big mismatch in a girls U14 game I was involved with in a previous role. At half-time it was clear that nobody was getting a beneficial experience out of the game so I agreed with the other coach that we would get the bibs out and mix up the teams. First-half: 6-0. Second-half: 3-3.
The ‘more able’ players also benefited from having to take more care over their decisions and actions. For example: much greater consideration of pass to one of their new teammates.
4. Quarters rather than halves
Agree to play quarters instead of halves. This gives more opportunities for the coaches to speak with players and agree on strategies to keep the game competitive.
5. Player-centred
Prioritise the players’ needs over your own ego. Most of the problems in youth football are either caused or fuelled by adults. So often it’s up to us to do what’s right and not just what’s easy.
Article courtesy of FA Regional coach development manager Jack Walton via The Boot Room, follow Jack on Twtter @Jackwalton1
