Getting to Know You

Can you tell us your name, how old you are, and how long you’ve been part of Oratia United?

My name is Eden Roberts, I am 13 years old and I have recently joined Oratia United but have been part previously.

What made you decide to start coaching a 7th grade team?

I decided to coach to try something new and have always had a passion for soccer as well as helping other kids grow into the best soccer players they can. I thought coaching could be a good opportunity for me to improve my communication, leadership skills and I also felt coaching was a chance to make a positive impact with these kids.

Coaching Journey

What was it like on your first day as a coach?

My first day of coaching was slightly difficult and very new but also a nice experience meeting a group of kind, fun, energetic kids. At first everyone was a bit shy including myself but through a few fun games, soon, everyone was having a good time.

How do you plan your training sessions for the kids?

I research online drills for 7th grade soccer to help with specific things while also taking advice from others who know a bit about coaching and 7 year olds. As well as that I also take drills from my own soccer experience.

What’s been the most rewarding moment so far while coaching?

Seeing the joy and excitement on the kids faces when they are playing or training I feel brightens my whole day. How they went from shy and struggling with confidence to working, laughing and having fun together while also improving with their soccer skills I feel has been the most rewarding moment.

Have you faced any challenges while coaching? How did you handle them?

Sometimes I face challenges of not listening and getting distracted like all 7 year olds do but I try my best to keep them occupied and gently remind them to listen when I am speaking or instructing.

Motivation and Impact

Why do you think it’s important for young people like you to give back to their clubs or communities?

I think it’s important to give back to clubs or communities as an act of kindness and gratitude for what the club or community has done for you. It teaches young people that they’re part of something and inspires young people to give back and stay involved.

How does coaching make you feel different from just playing the game?

Coaching gives me another perspective from just playing and working on my personal performance. It shifts the focus towards the entire team's play, working together and helping each individual grow and improve.

Relationships and Teamwork

What’s the best part about working with younger players?

The energy and enthusiasm from them as well as the support is incredible. Watching them overcome challenges, improve, support each other and discover a passion for soccer is one of the best parts of working with younger players.

Have you had any funny or surprising moments with your team?

Surprisingly with about only 2 training sessions the team had already connected with each other and grew extremely comfortable chatting and playing with each other. Even I got a few hugs and some competitive challenges from the kids.

Personal Growth

What have you learned about yourself since becoming a coach?

Becoming a coach made me learn to have leadership, communication and patience. It made me realise how rewarding it feels to help the team grow both as a team and as individuals. I have learned to be a good role model and to inspire others.

Do you think coaching has helped you with confidence, leadership, or communication? How?

Coaching helped me with my communication when I talk to children and how I need to be patient and speak gently or energetically. I also feel my leadership has improved with the team following my lead as I explain drills in my training sessions which also links to how I have built confidence by speaking, explaining and leading the team.

Looking Ahead

Do you think you’ll keep coaching in the future?

I hope to continue to coach in the future if possible as I feel it has been extremely rewarding and makes my day several times better.

What advice would you give to other young people who might want to coach but aren’t sure where to start?

I would say go for it if you can and if you enjoy both soccer and leading as well as hanging with children. Start by just giving it a go and from there keep giving it your best because it feels extremely rewarding and some would say really, really fun.

Fun Extras

What’s your favourite football memory?

My favourite football memory does vary but I would say it is coaching training sessions with my younger team or training with my other team the AllStars. The people are just amazing to hang out with and enjoy football with.

If your team had a motto or chant, what would it be?

‘Effort, energy, excitement’

Article added: Tuesday 17 June 2025