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Body language on the side line and practice

 

Body Language

This week I’m discussing this importance of body language. In the past I had tweeted about body language got a mixed response. I I’m currently reading Dan Abrahams book “Soccer tough” and it fueled my desire to write and talk about this aspect of the game It’s a part of coaching I am always trying to improve and correct on and off the field. Body language is something that can be overlooked by coaches but I feel it can indirectly have an impact on your persona and how you are perceived by players, parents, referees and fellow coaches. Your body language might change depending on if you are coaching male or female athletes or based on the age of the players we are working with. One thing I’ve learnt over the years is that anyone observing you plays or coach will make judgements on your coaching style or enthusiasm based on your body language. If your body language doesn’t change based age, level of play or sex of the players it might be something to consider.

As a youth coach I will always look up to the elite professional coaches but sometimes adopting their sideline body language is not appropriate for the youth game.

Sloughing on the bench looking tired or cold, hands in pockets or arms folded can give off a defensive and lackluster self-image that can have a negative impact on players and parents. As a youth coach you should always look engaged, enthusiastic and positive on the sidelines. Sulking on the bench because your team is losing or standing with arms folded in a huff does not sit well with the team & their families. If you look cold, tired or frustrated it will rub off on your team. Arms folded can also give the impression you are not open or approachable. I also don’t stand with my hands behind my back. It can give the impression you think your superior to everyone and are of a high stature than the people around you.

I try to use hand motion & signals to show enthusiasm on the sideline. This doesn’t mean act like a clown with 5 year olds or run up and down the touch line like a raving lunatic waving my arms about when coaching teenagers. Use positive non aggressive hand movement will show players and parents that you’re enthusiastic and a positive role model. When coaching youth players you want to remain positive and be confidant but not arrogant.

I’m not a fan of coaches holding cups of coffee or energy drinks. To me it gives the impression you are tired or was in a rush before the game or practice. If you look cold or tired, it will affect the player’s performance. This might seem like a little thing but players & parents pick up on it. If you need to hold something in your hand while coaching, hold a bottle of water. Shows me the coach is conscious of hydration and is prepared. This gives a better self-image. You don’t want it to look like you’re on a caffeine rage or just woke up from hibernation. I will sometimes hold a pen and note pad. It prevents me adopting any negative body langue and writing down a few notes or thoughts for reflection is never a bad thing and can help calm your sideline etiquette.

Here are some tips for coaches based on my own experience

• Constantly think about your posture. Stand tall and proud, It oozes confidence

• Don’t cross or fold arms and keep out of your pockets

• Use positive engaging hand signals to show energy and enthusiasm

• Smile it’s contagious.

• A soccer coach is role models make sure you present yourself in a positive approachable manor.

 

Paul Kelshaw

Director of Coaching 

PK Soccer Inc