Youth Inc. Recommends: Five Resources for Dealing with Issues with Athletes

Every coach eventually runs into challenges — players who act out, shut down, give half effort, or just don’t seem to respond. But those moments aren’t dead ends. They’re invitations to grow your coaching toolkit. 

These five resources offer actionable advice for dealing with behavioral issues, motivational slumps, and athletes who just aren’t clicking — without turning practice into a battlefield.

Managing Challenging Behavior in Youth Sports 

What it is: The application of Think:Kids’ Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) model to youth sports - via a titanic webinar featuring a wide variety of experts. 

Why we like it: This goes deeper than “lay down the law.” It’s about curiosity and collaboration, helping coaches understand why behavior is happening and how to build trust and accountability with even the toughest athletes. 

Five Tips for Dealing with Difficult Players

What it is: A practical listicle with clear advice on managing effort, attitude, and buy-in issues — from a coach's point of view. 

Why we like it: It's short, sharp, and to the point. This is a great crash course for new coaches or volunteers who are still figuring out how to handle a kid who’s rolling their eyes during drills. 

Managing Challenging Behaviors

What it is: An in-progress, but already excellent coaching resource for working with athletes of all abilities, emphasizing structure, communication, and respect. 

Why we like it: Even if you’re not coaching athletes with disabilities, these principles are rock-solid. Great for coaches who want to create a supportive environment that still holds kids accountable.

Addressing Players' Basic Needs

What it is: A guide emphasizing the importance of meeting athletes' fundamental needs—such as feeling valued, safe, and connected—to foster a positive sports environment. 

Why we like it: This resource provides practical strategies for coaches to create a supportive atmosphere, including establishing consistent routines and offering positive reinforcement. By addressing these basic needs, coaches can help athletes stay engaged and motivated, reducing behavioral issues and enhancing overall team cohesion.

Coaching the “Lazy” Athlete

What it is: A blog post unpacking the myth of laziness in youth sports and offering strategies for engaging underperforming players. 

Why we like it: It’s honest, relatable, and reframes laziness as a lack of purpose or connection — not a moral failing. A great gut-check for coaches ready to lead with compassion and high standards.