Introduction
After speaking with hundreds of coaches in our community, the same challenges come up again and again. Here are the five most common problems - and practical solutions that actually work.
Challenge 1: Mixed Ability Groups
“Mixed ability groups is a really common problem.” — FCA Member
The Problem
You have players at vastly different levels. Some are ready for complex tactics. Others are still mastering basic ball control. How do you keep everyone challenged and engaged?
The Solution
Design sessions with built-in progressions. Same activity, different challenge levels.
For advanced players:
- Add constraints (limited touches, time pressure)
- Increase opposition quality
- Add decision-making complexity
For developing players:
- Simplify the task
- Reduce opposition
- Focus on one skill at a time
The key is designing activities where success looks different for different players.
Challenge 2: Solo Coaching Large Groups
“I coach a 9v9 squad solo and started the season with 14 players. That was difficult.” — FCA Member
The Problem
You’re one coach with 14+ players. No assistants. No parent helpers. How do you keep everyone active and developing?
The Solution
Use station-based training and self-managing activities.
Station rotation:
- 3-4 activities running simultaneously
- Small groups rotate every 8-10 minutes
- You move between stations to coach
Self-managing games:
- Set clear rules and let them play
- Intervene only when necessary
- Trust players to problem-solve
Arrival activities:
- Have ball mastery circuits ready when players arrive
- They start immediately, no waiting for you
Challenge 3: Keeping Sessions Fresh
“Keeping sessions fresh to avoid boredom” , Common community concern
The Problem
Players lose interest when sessions feel repetitive. But you can’t reinvent the wheel every week.
The Solution
Same themes, different activities. Same activities, different challenges.
Weekly theme rotation:
- Week 1: Ball mastery
- Week 2: Passing/receiving
- Week 3: 1v1s
- Week 4: Finishing
- Repeat with variations
Activity variations:
- Change the space
- Change the numbers
- Change the scoring
- Add/remove constraints
You’re not starting from scratch - you’re adapting what works.
Challenge 4: Players Who Go Solo
“I am coaching 9-10 year olds and they want to go solo instead of working together.” — FCA Member
The Problem
Players dribble into trouble instead of passing. They see the goal and ignore teammates. Individual glory over team play.
The Solution
Don’t lecture about teamwork. Design games where passing is the smarter option.
Overload games:
- 4v2, 5v3 situations
- Success requires combination play
- Going solo gets punished by numbers
Reward systems:
- Points for assists
- Bonus for one-touch goals
- Recognition for “hockey assists”
Constraints:
- Maximum 3 touches before passing
- Must involve X players before shooting
- Goals only count from combination play
The environment teaches the lesson.
Challenge 5: Parent Management
“The biggest downside of pay to play is that it can shift the focus from development to results and it can encourage parents to be very opinionated.” — FCA Member
The Problem
Parents question selection. They coach from the sideline. They have unrealistic expectations.
The Solution
Prevention through pre-season meetings and clear communication.
Pre-season meeting essentials:
- Your coaching philosophy explained
- Roles and responsibilities defined
- Communication protocols established
- Written agreement signed
Ongoing management:
- Regular positive communication
- Development updates (not just results)
- 24-hour rule after matches
- Private conversations for concerns
The investment upfront saves firefighting later.
Conclusion
These challenges don’t have to define your coaching experience. With the right systems and mindset, they become manageable parts of the job rather than overwhelming obstacles.
The coaches who thrive aren’t the ones without problems. They’re the ones with better solutions.