We get asked frequently by either coaches or parents about what is proper playtime for players. Often enough it is usually the parents are unhappy their son or daughter is not receiving enough playtime (according to their expectations).
Player development should always be the driving force behind coaching youth sports. It is easy to get caught up in the moment during a game and make decisions based on what is best to win the match or simply lose sight of how many minutes have passed.
Regardless of the situation, a good coach finds ways to get all of his or her players into the game. At the youngest of ages, equal playtime should be the goal for each coach/team. As players get older, it is more acceptable and useful to award playtime based on a number of factors. Game minutes are great development tools for players and therefore should not be taken lightly.