Coaching a youth sports team is challenging, time consuming and often a thankless job. But if you truly dedicate yourself to the role, the rewards are plenty. It's all about helping kids more out of sports by instilling confidence and a passion for the game.

At Weplay, the online home of youth sports, we honor coaches who do just that every week.  And today, we've compiled their Top 10 Keys to Success. No matter if you're a rookie, experienced or veteran coach, we hope these tips help mold your coaching philosophy. 

1. Teach and re-teach the fundamentals at all levels. Trick plays and sets don't win games - proper execution of the fundamentals during those plays will make all the difference. - Rob Pierson - Basketball

2. Try to remember that it's only a game, and that regardless of the final score, as long as your players tried their best, they will ALWAYS be winners. - Keith Bradley - Softball

3. Keep everything as simple as possible. Simplicity builds confidence, and confidence leads to aggressive playing. - Dave Gilbert - Pop Warner Football

4. Establish team and individual goals that are "specific, measurable, achievable, reasonable and timely". - Rick Fritter - Volleyball

5. Before you can become a team, you must become friends. There is no room on a team for kids that don't like each other or who don't treat each other with respect. - John Presciutti - Soccer

6. Realize that players are smarter than you might give them credit for. Involve them in strategy discussions. Help them understand WHY you do what you do. Brett Kratzer - Basketball

7. Create a strict guideline that you and your team follow throughout the year. It shows your team what you expect from them and helps you to be fair and unbiased when making decisions. - Michelle Hrastich - Cheerleading

8. Set Goals for you and your assistant coaches and volunteers. Set an example for your players and team.  Let them know you're working hard too.  - Brian Acord - Hockey

9. Always look for a better way even if your way is a better way, otherwise you'll lose your creativity and the enjoyment of being a coach. Always go back to the drawing board to better yourself - every week or even every day if needed. - David Beard - Baseball/Softball

10. The bottom line: it's a game, so play hard and have fun! - Gehrig Stone-Awon - Volleyball

Weplay is the fastest growing online youth sports community. Our mission is to enable and enhance the joy of sports for kids, families and coaches both online and on the field. As parents and coaches ourselves, we take this mission seriously. We've built a fun, educational, informative and safe site that allows people to connect, share, learn and have fun.  Visit us at: http://www.weplay.com/home