Question
RULES FOR AMOUNT OF FOOTBALL PLAY TIME FOR A 9YO PLAYER
Our nine year old Grandson participates in all practice sessions, except when sick. His entire family comes to the game to "watch him play". It seems that the coaches are more intent on "winning" than teaching principles of football, sportsmanship, disipline, teamwork, etc. There are 25 kids on the bench while 11 are playing. Why not have a junior/senior team in the same age group. These kids will change in build, muscle, coordination and skill as the next few years pass. I am a Physician and understand the dynamics or pre-teen maturation. Are we not missing our goal by not finding a way to get these kids on the field and playing in regular games?
Answers (2)
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I coach on a mitey mite level that deals with 9 yr old players pop warner have rules that all players on a team have to have a minimun numbers of plays this are call MPR (mandatory plays requirement) and with 25 kids your team your be at least 12 plays per kid
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Though simple on the outside, the answer to this dilemma is a little complicated. When coaches are winning, small problems are overlooked because the general perception is that the staff is successful. When losing, the coaches aren't doing their jobs.
What I have done over the years is to engage the parents to help keep my player to coach ratio as low as possible. I believe in "coaching the coaches" so they can develop every player on the team no matter what the skill level. Drill into every player that tables can turn at any time; fatigue, injury, or emergency can open the door for them to be on the field. That is however, if they have practiced hard, understand the game and can fill the position at a moments notice.
So talk to the coaches and offer YOUR assistance. They are getting payed as much as you are, and are regrettable human to boot...Dan DeCristofaro
President
Tri-Cities Pop Warner
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