Anyone on a sports team of any kind, or who coaches a team understands that the group will do infinitely better if they work together as a group to accomplish their goals. That is why it is necessary for a soccer team to have a good mentality, as it is definitely a team sport.
Here are some important things to remember and to try work on with your team:
1. When everyone on the field is constantly arguing players will get frustrated and take their focus off the game. It is important for the players to bond outside of the game in order to get along better. Team bonding, though seemingly unimportant, really translates into the game.
2. It is very valuable for coaches to give their player feedback. Of course they should always be encouraging, but be open to your player on what they need to work on. This goes for players too; in a positive way let your teammates know what they need to improve on. For often a player is completely unaware of something that could totally improve their game. As a team sport, you should be giving your teammates tips so the whole team will feel the benefits.
3. Positive energy is key. Get the players around you pumped up! Keep things dynamic and don't spend too much time on a boring, dry talk or drill. These players are athletic so they want to get going.
4. Make sure everyone has the same goals. Of course winning is great, but encourage those who are improving, even if they aren't the best. Again, it is a team sport so improvement of those around you benefits your personal play as well.
5. Sportsmanship! No one wants someone on the team who is often back-talking the ref. As a coach, show your intolerance of this right away and players avoid this too. Remember, the other team is trying just as hard as you and you want to keep things classy.
6. Coaches: try to make time for one-on-one conversations to help players improve individually and to show your care towards each player.
7. And of course, have fun and be competitive! When there is some healthy competition going on players will have more drive and play harder. Don't go overboard, but try to give everyone a reason as to why they should give their all.
By working on each of these things, as a player or a coach, the play on the field will definitely increase considerably. These work for any team sport, but especially soccer since each player totally relies on those around them. A good mentality among the team creates an atmosphere where everyone can be purely focused on the game and not worried about their teammates.
