CATEGORY · SEPTEMBER 2026
What not to shout from the touchline (and what to shout instead)
We've all been there. It's a wet October Saturday, the U9s are trailing 2-0, and you're standing on the touchline with a mouth full of half-chewed flapjack. What you say next can make or break the match for your kid — and the team. Here's what not to shout, and what to say instead.
The three things that always backfire
We've seen it time and again: certain touchline shouts have the opposite effect of what you intend. First, avoid tactical advice. "Pass to the left!" might seem helpful, but in reality, it creates noise. Your kid is supposed to be listening to one voice: the coach's. When multiple parents shout different advice, it confuses the players and disrupts the game.
Second, resist the urge to criticise the referee. "That's not a foul!" might make you feel better in the moment, but it sets a poor example for your kid. It teaches them to question authority and can create a negative atmosphere. Plus, the referee is usually a volunteer, just like the coach.
Third, don't compare your kid to others on the team. "Why isn't he playing more minutes like Tom?" might seem like a fair question, but it creates division within the squad. Kids notice these comments, and it can lead to resentment and a toxic team environment.
The three things that always help
On the flip side, there are certain touchline shouts that always have a positive impact. First, encourage good sportsmanship. "Great effort!" or "Well done on that tackle!" reinforces positive behaviour and keeps the atmosphere friendly. It also teaches your kid to appreciate effort over outcome.
Second, offer general encouragement. "You've got this!" or "Keep pushing!" are broad enough to apply to any situation but specific enough to show your support. This type of shout helps your kid feel backed without overwhelming them with too much information.
Third, celebrate goals and good plays, regardless of the final score. "Beautiful goal!" or "Nice pass!" acknowledges individual effort and keeps morale high. It also helps your kid focus on their own performance rather than the overall result.
Building a positive touchline routine
We've found that the best touchline behaviour starts before the match even begins. Take five minutes before kick-off to set the tone. Remind your kid to give their best effort, regardless of the score. Encourage them to shake hands with the opposition and wish them well. This not only sets a positive example but also helps your kid approach the game with the right mindset.
During the match, stick to general encouragement and good sportsmanship. Avoid getting too caught up in the tactics or the referee's decisions. Remember, your kid is there to have fun and develop their skills, not to win at all costs.
One thing worth dwelling on
We've noticed that the simplest shouts are often the most effective. "Great effort!" or "Well done!" can make a world of difference.
Why it matters
We get it. It's hard to watch your kid struggle on the pitch. But the way you behave on the touchline has a direct impact on their experience. By focusing on positive reinforcement and good sportsmanship, you're not just making the match more enjoyable for your kid — you're also contributing to a better overall atmosphere for the entire team.
Remember, the touchline is your chance to be a positive influence. Use it wisely.
Closing thought
We don't know if changing your touchline behaviour will turn your kid into the next Messi. We do know that it will make their football experience more enjoyable and contribute to a positive team environment. And isn't that what it's all about?
Internal cross-link: What grassroots football coaches wish parents knew about the touchline.
Internal cross-link: The 5-minute Saturday routine that keeps a football journal going.