Under 8's Captaincy - is it right?

Under 8's Captaincy - is it right?

I've got a player who is commanding, brilliant at spreading the play, and is no doubt my best player in my under 8's 5 a-side team. I've decided most times that he's going to be captain. The question is, whether or not you think it's right to give the captaincy to just one player? How do you guys organise yours? Rotate it? Have just one? Give it to the best trainer that week?

Oliver PerkinsCoach, England
TOP ANSWER
Football CoachCoach

Hi Oliver,

My view, What real role does a captain play at age 7? Its alll about player development so I would just rotate captaincy as it gives a thrill to that player each week, There are no tactics at this age so I dont belive the captain does anymore than toss call.

ANSWERS
Football CoachCoach

Hi Oliver,

My view, What real role does a captain play at age 7? Its alll about player development so I would just rotate captaincy as it gives a thrill to that player each week, There are no tactics at this age so I dont belive the captain does anymore than toss call.

Paul ZambonCoach, England

I agree with Guys comment. I rotate the captaincy every week, regardless of ability.

At U7 and U8 the true role of a captain is meaningless. The children just love the idea of being captain, they get to take part in the toss up at the start and lead the handshake and hip, hip horays at the end of the match. Its a good way of ensuring you keep things as inclusive as possible.

Similarly I have chosen not to have a man of the match award as there is too much spread in technical ability, emotional and physical maturity to actually make it meaningful so why do it. I think it ends up more as bragging rights for parents really so I just dont go there. All I want is for each child to do the best they can.

Just my two penneth.

duane Coach, England

Hi Oliver

we are now at u10`s and i still rotate my captain...

we present a MOTM award/trophy after each game and the winner of this also gets the captains armband for the next match.

The boys love it.

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