Good Sports

My daughter made it through her first soccer season. And I survived my first stint as soccer coach. It was a great experience for both of us. I tried to make it as much fun as possible for these 4-year-olds so they will want to continue with the sport in the future. It's clear to me that kids need to be active throughout their formative years to develop the kind of healthy habits they'll need as teens and young adults to cope with the changes those years bring.

Not that young children have much trouble being active. My team was actually more energetic before their games. I had to calm them down and make them sit so they wouldn't be worn out by the end of the first quarter. But in addition to just running around in circles and screaming their heads off, I think it's equally important for the kids to know how to be part of a team and to work together to reach a common goal.

My own kids get a balance of individual and group activities. They're good at playing by themselves, but I also want them to play well with others. You can't go through life being a loner. Well, I guess you could, but it's probably not much fun.

So what did I learn from being a soccer coach?

• Just like with my own kids, I have to say everything three times to other kids too!
  
• Some parents expect the coach to take over all of their responsibilities during practices and games.
  
• The best way to perk up a tired kid is to remind them about the after-game snack.
  
• Even the toughest 4-year-old boy cries like a baby when he gets kicked in the leg.
  
• 4-year-old girls are tougher than 4-year-old boys.
  
• Scoring a goal is fun, even if it's in the wrong net.