One of the most rewarding things you can do is teach kids the ins-and-outs of competitive sports. Whether you are just giving them an activity to make them better as human beings or sending them on the track to play Varsity, college level, or even professional -- coaching is incredibly beneficial on all accounts. However, if you have never coached before, you will want to start looking into some tips that will help you. Use these points below so that you can wrap your mind around becoming a great rec league coach.

Keep it fun and instructional

Your main purpose as a rec league coach is to teach kids the fundamentals of the sport. However, you need to realize that you're getting a mixed bag. Some kids might want to play for the rest of their lives, while others just signed up for an activity to have something to do. Regardless, fun is the common denominator. Find ways to give kids time to let their energy out and get competitive while participating in something that they actually want to show up to. The more creative you get on the fun aspect, the more you'll be able to slip in instructional jewels, making it a win-win situation.

Make sure that your players master the basics before getting complicated

If you're trying to win your league, you likely will want to game plan for competitors and add some tricks to give you an edge. While you absolutely should go this route, young kids can easily get overloaded and confused by too much information. Rather than confusing your kids, give them some fundamentals to master so that they can do the basics well, as opposed to halfway doing 15 different complicated things. For example, a youth basketball coach should definitely teach kids the 2-1-2 Zone and have them master that before getting any more complicated.

Do your homework so that you're better prepared to teach your kids

The real coaching happens in the privacy of your own home. If possible, record practices and break down game film of both your team and opponents so that you can put in schemes. You need to know your personnel and what to expect so that you can get the most from them. You should also embrace technology by using a player evaluation tool that will allow you to put every athlete in the best spot to succeed for the team.

If you engage with these tips, you'll be able to become the best youth coach you can possibly be. For more information on athletic player evaluation manager positions, contact your local evaluation manager.