13/07/2026
⚽️ NOT HAPPY! ⚽️
This week, a player from one of our DF Sports sessions returned to us after joining a local Coventry grassroots team last year.
The player, who is part of our Under 10s age group, attended several training sessions, signed on with the team and then played his first season.
They played their final tournament last week, and the following day, he was informed that he was no longer required for next season.
As you can imagine, this left a young boy confused, disappointed and questioning why. His parents also wondering why, as they feel they were blindsided.
I understand every team has a different ethos, but you can coach players, or even give the family other options, you don’t just drop a player.
I won’t name the club, and I know the vast majority of grassroots coaches across Kenilworth and Warwickshire give up countless hours for the right reasons. This post is not aimed at them.
However, if you are involved in coaching children, please remember the influence and responsibility that comes with that role.
Children’s football should be about development, enjoyment, confidence, friendships and creating a lifelong love of the game.
Of course we all want to win. Competition is important, im one of the most competitive and winning can be a fantastic experience for young players.
But at kids level, it should never come at the expense of a child’s confidence or enjoyment. As me and my team are now left to pick up the pieces, and then find him a new club when he is ready.
Every child develops at a different rate. Some shine immediately, while others need time, encouragement and patience.
At DF Sports, we believe football should be for everyone regardless of ability.
Any player who wants to learn, improve and enjoy the game will always be welcome at our sessions.
This is exactly why i set up DF Sports over 10 years ago….to provide a positive environment where children can develop, belong and enjoy football without fear of being written off too soon.
Let’s remember why we all started coaching in the first place. As this is not the first time its happened. ❤️⚽️