Youth Sports News Getting Players to Play the Best They Can Author: Steve Spurrier, University of Florida, Notes from Portland NIKE Clinic 1998 Treat all players fairly. The way they've earned and deserved to be treated. Do not demand too much from the lesser talented. After criticizing a player, say something positive to bring him back the next day. READ MORE Motivating Young Athletes One of the hardest parts of high school football coaching is motivating young athletes to practice. To do this effectively, the coach has to foster an understanding of the relationship between training, practice and peak performance. He must encourage the athletes, provide structured training, and help them gain the self-discipline necessary for success and excellence on the field. READ MORE Accentuating the Positive for Young Athletes To compliment rather than criticize. To encourage with measured tones rather than raised voices. To build up rather than tear down. Jim Thompson worked hard as a father and an educator to alter the youth sports experience for his son and the other children he has coached in two decades. Now he hopes to expand his vision to the rest of the country. READ MORE Visit again soon for the next news article that will help you in your quest to become a better football coach.