Parents' and Coaches' Library
As parents and coaches, it is important to educate ourselves with strategies and processes that will allow us to relate to and teach kids in a way that benefits them to the highest degree: maximizing their potential and bringing their goals within reach. The following literature aligns with the Esparza FC philosophy.
Winning vs Development: An in-depth article on the current focus of youth soccer in the US and the author's take on the necessary shift to grow a strong, healthy youth soccer program.
Do Schools Kill Creativity? A Ted Talk by Sir Ken Robinson: A talk not just limited to schools but to youth sports as well, where creativity should play a prominent role but is often suffocated in the name of results.
Developing Creativity in Youth Soccer: another look at the importance of Creativity in sports and beyond.
Patience is the Most Important Attribute in Developing Soccer Players: the title says it all! A look at why being patient (coaches, parents and players) is paramount in kids' development in sports.
Coaching to Develop Players vs Coaching to Win: a look at the differences between these two styles and the long term benefits of the former over the latter.
The CPR Method, How to Support Kids When they Make Mistakes: an analysis of how kids react to making mistakes on the pitch and how to help them view mistakes as a necessary and essential part of learning.