CATEGORY · OCTOBER 2026
The football parent glossary: 30 terms you'll hear on the touchline
You've probably heard them muttered by coaches, shouted from the touchline, or whispered in the car park. These are the terms that populate the world of youth football. Understanding them can help you decode what's happening on the pitch and, more importantly, what coaches are trying to teach.
Mark Up
When a coach yells "mark up!" during a match, they're instructing players to get tighter to their assigned opponent. This usually happens after a goal or a near miss, as a way to prevent the opposition from repeating the same move. We've seen this called in almost every age group, from U7s to U18s. It's a quick reset tactic that can shift the momentum back to your team.
In our experience, kids respond well to this command when they understand it's not about being aggressive, but about being attentive. It's a chance to show they're paying attention and can react quickly to the coach's instructions.
Reset
A "reset" is a coach's way of telling the team to forget about the last play and start fresh. This could be after a goal has been conceded, a missed opportunity, or even just to regain composure. From what parents tell us, hearing this term often means the coach is trying to calm the team down and refocus their efforts.
We've found that younger players, especially, can get easily discouraged by a single mistake. A reset gives them permission to move on and try again, which is a valuable lesson in resilience.
High Press
The "high press" is a strategy where players quickly move towards the opposition as soon as they lose possession, trying to win the ball back as close to the opponent's goal as possible. This term is commonly used in older age groups, where players have developed the stamina and understanding to execute it effectively.
In our observation, teams that employ a high press often have players who are comfortable with quick decision-making and have a good understanding of their roles within the team. It's a style that can be thrilling to watch but requires a lot of energy and coordination.
Second Ball
"Second ball" refers to the ball that becomes available after the initial play has been dealt with. This could be a loose ball after a shot, a rebound from a save, or a clearance that doesn't go out of play. Coaches often emphasise the importance of winning second balls, as they can lead to quick counter-attacks or additional pressure on the opposition.
We've noticed that players who are good at winning second balls are often those who have a strong awareness of the game and can anticipate where the ball might go next. It's a skill that can make a big difference in tight matches.
Mixed Footed
A "mixed footed" team is one that includes both left-footed and right-footed players. This balance can be beneficial in many ways, offering a variety of passing options and making the team less predictable to opponents. We've seen coaches deliberately select teams to ensure a mix of footedness, especially in older age groups.
From what parents have shared with us, having a mixed-footed team can also help individual players develop their weaker foot, as they're forced to use it more often in training and matches.
Unit
When a coach talks about playing as a "unit", they're emphasising the importance of teamwork and coordination. This means players should be aware of each other's positions, support one another, and move as a cohesive group rather than individuals. We've heard this term used across all age groups, but it's particularly crucial in the older categories where the game becomes more complex.
In our experience, teams that play well as a unit are often those where players have spent a lot of time together, developing an understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses. It's a hallmark of a well-coached team.
One thing worth dwelling on
Understanding these terms can help you better appreciate the nuances of the game and the strategies coaches are employing. It's a small but meaningful way to connect more deeply with your child's football experience.
Bringing It Back to You
As a parent, knowing these terms can make you feel more included in your child's football journey. You'll be better equipped to understand what's happening on the pitch and, more importantly, what your child is learning. It's another way to show your support and interest in their passion.
If you're looking for more insights into what coaches wish parents knew, check out our post on what coaches wish parents knew. And for a deeper dive into the stats that matter at the U8 level, don't miss our article on U8 football stats that matter.
Closing Thought
Football is a language of its own, rich with terms and strategies that can seem mysterious to outsiders. But with a little knowledge, you can start to decipher it, gaining a deeper appreciation for the game and your child's place within it.