Everything a new coach needs, kept on one friendly clipboard.
Six plain-language guides, from building your first team to a calm, organised match day. Read a page, tick the steps, and have a season you can actually enjoy.
The six jobs of a first-time coach
Each page is a focused guide with steps you can check off.
Setting up the team
Squad, kit, roles and a shared first-week plan before anyone laces up.
Getting sponsorship
A simple pitch, what local businesses love, and how to ask without the awkwardness.
The culture of the team
The values you say out loud, the habits you model, and keeping everyone in the game.
Engaging with parents
Clear, kind communication that keeps sideline energy helpful instead of noisy.
Organising training sessions
A session template that mixes ball work, movement and a bit of plain fun.
Getting match day ready
The 48-hour checklist so kitted, hydrated players arrive calm and on time.
Setting up the team
Your first weeks are about building something the kids can believe in. Work through the checklist, then borrow the coaching notes beside it.
Recruit a small group of 8 to 12 players
Keep the first season small enough that everyone plays meaningful minutes and no one hides at the back.
Agree kit, pitch time and a simple budget
Write the numbers down and share them before anything is spent. Parents trust a coach who is organised with money.
Send a one-page welcome to every parent
Times, kit list, your contact, and what you value on the pitch. One page means it will actually be read.
Book your first three training sessions
Consistency matters more than intensity in the early weeks. Three dates on the calendar beats one epic session.
Coach the feeling, not the result
If a kid leaves happier and wants to come back, the session worked.
Say things out loud
Culture is whatever you repeat. Choose your words on purpose from day one.
Keep it to one page
Parents and players remember the short, clear version of any plan.