Whether its getting completely demolished by an opponent, or having to spend an entire match on the bench, a developing soccer player will eventually have to deal with some serious adversity in his or her playing career.  While the way that such a person reacts to their troubles tells a lot about their character, it also provides a great learning experience for the player and will help them to develop an inner strength that will take their game to the next level.

After the initial disappointment of whatever this humbling experience may be, most players will feel a desire to fight and a burning anger.  Used positively, such feelings can morph into an intense passion, an absolute necessity for success in any field, soccer included.  By dealing with some adversity, a young athlete will have to muster the courage to go out and try again, only this time with more of a fighting spirit.

When a player lacks such experience in having to dig deep and light the flame that pushes them onwards, they not only become cocky and overly-confident, but they will fail to react well when that inevitable humbling experience arises.  The result of this is when you see someone throw a tantrum in a soccer match.  They may start screaming at the referee, the coach, their teammates, whoever.  The point is that they will be left steaming and will probably make a reckless display of immaturity.  Such actions can result in a red card, banishment from a team, and ruined relationships.

Therefore, if you are a coach or parent of a young soccer player, put them in a position where they will be tested and humbled.  Don’t always put them down because it will destroy their confidence and ruin the sport for them.  But let them play against someone older and bigger every once in a while, and see how they react.

Life is not all roses and butterflies.  Things happen that don’t necessarily always go your way, no matter how successful you become.  How you learn to handle such moments is what defines you as a person.  By being exposed to some challenges from the get go, you will be better equipped to deal with it and come out stronger than before.  Additionally, you will learn the valuable lesson of humility.

Look at a player like Lionel Messi.  While he is at the top of the sport, usually always has his way, and wins countless awards and trophies, Messi comes across as a completely down to Earth person who is grateful and respectful of all he has in this world.  Do you think he got this way by being an obnoxious crybaby and assuming he’s better than everyone else?  I highly doubt it.

Therefore, I encourage soccer players of all ages to embrace whatever hardships and challenges that may come their way.  While your initial response may be to lash out and be angry, let that fire build up within your to react in a positive way and push you forward to develop into a better soccer player and a better person!