Coaching Values

Expectations of players and staff

1. Communication

Coaches do not speak "at” players but rather engage at their level to communicate what is happening and create a mutually beneficial meeting of hearts, minds and feet. Minor modifications to this are only as is appropriate given age and developmental levels.

2. Humility

Both in the game and off the pitch, we expect our players to be of excellent spirit and demonstrate a high level of engagement however truly successful players and people understand that the world does not revolve around them and that how they treat others will be how they themselves will ultimately be treated.

3. We are all unique in some way

Players come in all sorts of different shapes and sizes and have different football ages, emotional, mental and physical stages of development. Although the principles concerning playing football do not change, the way it is delivered must be to meet each player's needs as closely as possible. There is room for everybody.

4. We are all a part of something bigger

Although we are all individuals, we belong to a community whether we wish to be or not. This community extends beyond football into our families, neighbourhoods, and schools. It is local, regional, national, and global. It is up to us to choose to add something of value to each and work for the good of all even if we can't see them immediately. We as human beings, were made by our Creator for good works and through His grace, spirit and power, we can become all that we were created to be and our potential is limitless. When we put ourselves aside and come together, seeking to meet the needs of others, this is how we learn teamwork, patience and humility. It is then that we realize that our needs are being met.

5. Players will determine their own pace for development

Everybody develops differently. Some blossom early whilst others bloom late. Just because a player does not appear to be gaining as much ground as other players means nothing in the long term with the bigger picture in mind. Therefore coaches will continue to encourage all players regardless of perceptions about their ability. We also advise all parents not to push their children to achieve but rather facilitate opportunities to suit their children's interests and remain positive even in the face of lowered actual outcomes initially.

6. There is more than one pathway and not solely one end

The road to enjoying a lifelong activity such as football comes in many formats. Some of the best players will never become All Whites and some players who represent NZ at age grade will never go on to play professionally. Our role is to provide opportunities across the board and help players to identify their own goals, then to help them exceed their expectations. It is our privilege to play a role in assisting each player to become the best that they can be and enjoy the level of football they want to with no regrets when they look back and reflect on their sporting days. Success comes in varied forms and is not determined by any specific criteria. The love of the game is the most important thing.

7. Safe environment

This means that no bad language is tolerated. This is coupled with zero tolerance for bullying of any sort. Regardless of a child's background, socio-economic disposition, family religious beliefs or otherwise, all children can expect to be trained in a totally safe mental and emotional environment. SAFCA coaches endeavour to ensure that the physical environment also meets the standard for safety and although accidents can happen, our record for injuries suffered through our programs is extraordinary in terms of lack thereof.

8. Kids need to be celebrated

All kids naturally want to win and do their best because internally they seek approval of their peers, their parents, their coaches and then themselves. Some achieve more than others but regardless we encourage that all look for the special quality in each child which should be celebrated for this is how confidence is built in the hearts and minds of kids.