Preparing for a New Football Season: A Coach’s Guide to Kit and Equipment
As the current 2024-25 season nears an end, you’ll already be thinking about next season. Preparation is key to a fun and successful season, whether you’re working with an under-7s squad just starting out or a more experienced under-12s team, having the right kit and equipment helps keep your players engaged, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the game.
Beyond teaching skills and teamwork, a well-organised coach ensures the squad is properly kitted out for training, match days, and the unpredictable British weather. Here’s a checklist to help you get your team fully prepared.
1. Kit and Clothing for Young Players
Young players need the right gear to stay comfortable and focused:
• Match day kits – Ensure all players have shirts, shorts, and socks in your team colours.
• Training gear – Lightweight tops and shorts for warmer days, base layers for cold mornings.
• Footwear – Parents should check that boots fit properly and are suitable for the playing surface (firm ground, soft ground, or artificial turf).
• Shin pads – A must-have for safety and a requirement in most leagues.
At younger age levels, comfort is just as important as performance. Players won’t enjoy the game if they’re too cold, wet, or uncomfortable—so having weather-appropriate clothing is essential.
2. Weather Protection
With young players, the weather can be a big factor in keeping them happy on the pitch. As a coach, you want to ensure they stay warm and dry so they can focus on playing, not shivering on the sidelines.
• Athletherm Waterproof Ponchos – A game-changer for young squads. Whether waiting to be subbed on or walking to and from the pitch, these lightweight, easy-to-pack ponchos keep players dry without restricting movement. A simple way to avoid cold, miserable kids!
• Training jackets – Ideal for colder training sessions.
• Hats and gloves – A must-have for winter months.
• Sun protection – On the rare sunny match days, hats and sun cream are just as important as shin pads.
3. Balls and Training Equipment
The right training equipment makes a big difference when coaching younger age groups. Sessions should be engaging and easy to manage:
• Correct size footballs – Size 3 for under-8s, size 4 for under-12s.
• Cones and markers – Great for fun games and skill-building drills.
• Portable goals – Essential for small-sided training matches.
• Bibs – Helps younger players distinguish teams during drills.
For younger teams, keeping training sessions fun and structured is just as important as teaching the game itself. Having the right equipment allows you to focus on coaching rather than managing chaos.
4. First Aid and Player Wellbeing
Young footballers are still learning how to move, balance, and play safely—so minor injuries are common. Having the right first aid essentials helps you respond quickly:
• Fully stocked first aid kit – Including ice packs, plasters, antiseptic wipes, and blister plasters.
• Extra water bottles – Young players often forget to bring their own!
• Warm-up and cool-down gear – Foam rollers or simple stretching bands can help prevent injuries.
5. Organising the Squad and Season
Coaching younger age groups isn’t just about what happens on the pitch—it’s about making sure everything runs smoothly off it too.
• Player registrations and insurance – Double-check all paperwork is up to date.
• Training schedules – Stick to a routine to help kids (and parents) stay organised.
• Parent communication – A simple WhatsApp group or email list makes life easier.
• Team socials – A great way to build friendships and keep kids engaged with football beyond match days.
By ensuring your squad has the right gear and preparation, you’re setting them up for a season of fun, development, and success. Whether it’s keeping them warm and dry with an Athletherm poncho or making training sessions more engaging, small details make a big difference.
Ready for the new season? Let’s make it a great one!