First Impressions Matter: 5 Simple Tips for Your First Session
The first whistle of the season is more than just the start of a training block—it’s the moment you begin building a team culture.
For a child, the first session is often a nerve-wracking mix of excitement and anxiety. As a coach, your goal isn't to fix their technique in 60 minutes; it’s to ensure they are begging their parents to bring them back next week.
Here are five simple ways to ensure your first session is a resounding success:
1. Greet the Child Before the Parent
It sounds basic, but in the chaos of a first session, this vital step is often overlooked. Naturally, we tend to greet the parents first. However, while you’re chatting about logistics, the child is often left standing awkwardly to the side. You’ve missed your first chance for a real connection.
Get on their level: As the child walks up, get down to eye level and greet them with a big smile.
Introduce yourself and listen for their name. Repeat their name back to them. This proves you are listening and helps you lock it into your memory.
Ask a Question: Ask something simple like, "How long have you been playing?" or "What’s your favorite position?" this shows you care and are interested in them.
The Result: When you finally turn to the parent, you’ll usually see a smile. Parents love seeing a coach who shows genuine care for their child.
Hot Tip: Study your team list before you arrive. Have a cheat sheet handy with both the child’s and parents' names. Having those names fresh in your mind makes the introductions much smoother.
2. Run an Icebreaker Activity
The quicker players feel comfortable with each other, the better they will play. Whether the kids are old friends or total strangers, they need help finding their "groove" as a unit.
Try these simple games to lower the pressure:
The Circle Pass: Stand in a circle. When a player has the ball, they say their name and one "favorite" (team, player, or food).
The Memory Game: Pass the ball randomly. The person who catches it must name the person who just passed it to them. Constant repetition is the key to learning names quickly.
3. Set Clear (Two-Way) Expectations
Communication is a two-way street. Take five minutes to sit everyone down and discuss what the season looks like. This creates a "social contract" for the team.
What you expect from them: * Punctuality: Getting to training on time and using the team chat if you’re running late.
The Whistle: When the whistle blows, it’s time to listen—no talking or bouncing balls.
Support: Celebrate each other's efforts. Mistakes happen; our job is to pump each other up.
What they can expect from you:
Clear Communication: I will always let you know the plan.
Fairness: Everyone gets a go and a chance to learn.
Openness: I am always free for a chat after training if you have questions or feedback.
4. Keep it Fun (and Simple)
The first session is not the time for grueling fitness laps or complex tactical drills. Use this time to observe and connect.
Mix it up: Intentionally pair kids up with people they don't know yet to break up "cliques."
Play the "Hits": Use drills you know they will enjoy. Don’t stretch them too far technically in week one.
Observe: Use this session to identify strengths and "opportunities" for growth rather than forcing rigid positions immediately.
5. Finish with a Group Huddle
How you end the session determines how they feel on the car ride home.
The Pump Up: Thank them for their effort and tell them how excited you are for the season ahead
The Recap: Ask them to recall the expectations you discussed earlier—getting them to vocalise the "rules" helps with memory retention.
The Huddle: Finish with a team chant. You can go with the classic "Dolphins on three!" or let the kids create something unique. Giving them ownership of the chant builds instant pride.
Summary: It’s All About Connection
At the end of the day, the first session is about making kids feel seen, heard, and excited. Your technical drills will be ten times more effective once the players trust you and enjoy being there.
What is your favourite icebreaker for a new team? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your go-to drills for week one!
