Enhancing Player Experiences through Team Building & Games

Team building has been a bit of a challenge for me, but it’s become increasingly crucial in my coaching journey.

I now kick off every youth practice with an exciting game or team-building drill, and I encourage off-the-field bonding too. From tailgates to movie nights, we’ve done it all!

Why does this matter so much to me? Well, there are plenty of reasons, but the top ones include:

Fun and Enjoyment: When athletes have fun and truly enjoy the game, they’re more likely to stay committed and practice on their own.
Inclusivity: Every member of the team deserves to feel like they belong.
Team Cohesion: Comfortable teammates are more willing to take risks and learn how to play together effectively.
Building Relationships: It’s an opportunity for me to build strong connections with my players and show them I care about them as individuals, not just athletes.
Personal Enjoyment: And, honestly, who doesn’t love a good laugh and some fun?

Surprisingly, one of our youth team’s favorite games from last year was the simple yet engaging “Sleeping Baby.” It requires minimal equipment, and their enthusiasm for it took me by surprise!

Game: Sleeping Baby

Purpose: Fun, Warm Up, Footwork, Team Bonding

Objective: To be the last player caught.

Directions: Players spread out in a designated area. You could set out cones or use the circle or 8-meter. The coach than gives the players a movement to do (i.e. quick feet, high skips, sliding, backpedal, etc.). You can make the movements as simple or fun as you want. At one point, we were doing cartwheels or skipping around screaming “Coach K is my favorite person in the entire world.” Players move around in the area freely using the movement provided by the coach. When the whistle blows, players need to hit the ground quickly and be as still as a sleeping baby (snoring sounds are A OK!). The last person caught awake is out. To keep the players that are out involved, I ask them to choose the next movement and to help me catch the last player awake.

Important Note: My athletes were already feeling pretty comfortable with each other before I introduced this game and started trying silly movements.

What are some of your favorite fun games & team building activities?

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