Naturally, with young players and coaching youth football, discipline problems NEVER arise when: kids are having fun, the team is working hard and everyone is challenged mentally and physically. We football coaches are the example, on and off the field.

Now, if a kid ever acts out, I’ve decided to stop using conditioning/laps/pushups as punishment. I know this is highly non-traditional, but trust me, it’s really worked for the kids I coach.

I use laps as a warm-up, then put a totally positive/productive spin on the conditioning / workout segments of each football practice. It’s good for them, and we need to treat it as such. Why the heck would I ever teach them to associate something as important as conditioning with shame, guilt or punishment? That’s not healthy in the short-term, and definitely unhealthy in the long run.

The few times I’ve seen a kid act out or not pay attention, I have simply lowered my voice and told him honestly and firmly that his behavior does not meet the standard of his teammates and football coaches. I ask if he’d like another chance. I’ve never gotten an answer other than either, “Yes, Coach” or, “Yes sir”. I generally reply, with, “Great, now get back out there and show me you deserve it. Play like a champion — practice like a champion.”

Second step: a firmer tone. Something like, “Whoa, whoa whoa, I thought you were asking for another chance, are you sure you’re ready to continue? Are you up for practicing like a champion?”

Final step: the bench, or a systematic reduction in playing time.

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