by Michelle Vermillion

Created on: March 13, 2009

Children's sports teams are about much more than a final score. They're about learning, growing, teamwork and having fun. Coaches and parents alike should celebrate team sports in a variety of ways and give players great memories to carry throughout their lives.

First impressions are lasting, and this is why introductions and activities at the first team practice can be pivotal in a child's experience. To set the stage, the coach should welcome the group and treat each player equally. New players will be intimidated and should be encouraged to socialize with long-time team friends. Icebreaker activities can also be used to break new players out of their shells while allowing returning players to meet new friends. These games can be silly and non-sports focused: the point is to prompt communication between players and ensure all players are comfortable working together as a group.

Each team practice is just as important as each season game the children play. A practice can be considered successful if the players learn and have fun. The trick to this is to find ways for the players to learn and grow without realizing they are doing so. It is vital to have an instructional portion of practice where basic drills teach crucial skills, but even more important is the reinforcement of learned skills through activities and game play. Each player should leave every session with some sort of accomplishment, whether big or small. This will create a fun practice for players while also improving skills and creating self-confidence. As an extra bonus, try letting the players explain a drill or choose activities for the group. The feeling of ownership will allow children to have more passion for the team and the sport.

One of the greatest things both parents and coaches can do to create a winning season is to focus on the team, not the individual. This can first be done through consistent attention to teambuilding activities. Being on a team means that players need to work together; let them learn this through specific group activities rather than mixing communication with skill-based drills. Each teambuilding activity should be followed by a debriefing session where players discussed what worked for them, what strategies could be improved, who emerged as leaders and who lead by following. The values they learn will visibly carry into their game play.

Attitude of players, coaches and parents will also be a determining factor in the success of a team's season. It is very easy to

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