Parental pressure on youth football coaches and players

Abstract

Coaches in a football nursery have a variety of training activities which can help develop various skills and educate children. This investigation will analyse the effects of parental pressure on the performance of coaches and players at a local youth football nursery. This research project aims to discover whether coaches are being allowed to perform their task of coaching or are influenced by parents. Ultimately this research will determine if it is better for coaches and players if the parents are not present during the training sessions or in tournaments. A questionnaire was the tool used to collect data about this issue. A questionnaire was given to all coaches of different categories at one nursery. Youth players aged 12 and 16 were also given questionnaires so that we have a different view on the pressure they have from parents So the investigation aims to cover the categories in the nursery so that we will have a clear view on the nursery as a whole. From this study it was concluded that parents are exerting pressure on coaches and children, but these are only the minority. The presence of parents during training sessions and tournaments is needed especially in tournaments. This is because children, regardless of their age, need parental support and encouragement. This study also concludes that parents, apart from supporting their children, they should also be careful not to put extra pressure on coaches and children thus allowing them to work freely for the interest of their children's progress.