On the soccer fields across the country, mistakes happen
every day. And mistakes do not discriminate against age,
gender or ability. Whether it is a bad pass, poor touch or
scoring an own goal, mistakes inevitably happen. Surrounding
every field, we hear coaches and parents alike, instructing
players (sometimes very loudly) before they have the
opportunity to make their own decision. Pass it! Boot it!
Shoot! Play It! Run!
So what is the point of the quote from one of the greatest
coaches of all time? Maybe it is that one of the best ways
to learn is through making mistakes. If we never push our
limits. If we never stretch ourselves. If we never fail. If
we never make mistakes – then how do we ever really know
what we are capable of?
So next time you are on the field, try something new or try
and play out of a situation instead of just “booting it”.
You might fail. You might make a mistake. You might turn the
ball over. But over time, you will feel more comfortable
with that specific skill or situation. And that is exactly
the point. Keep doing and keep making mistakes so that
difficult things eventually become easier and you can attack
newer challenges.
In summary, do what is more challenging. Do what does not
come naturally. Doing leads to development. So every time
you are on the field – Remember to be a “doer!”
