What is ‘Game State’ — and Why Do Coaches Keep Mentioning It?

I remember a game last season. We were winning 2–0, just ten minutes to go, and suddenly… chaos. Players pushing forward like we were chasing the game. We got caught out, conceded two goals, and lost. It wasn’t a fitness issue — it was a ‘game state’ issue.

So… What Is a Game State?

In simple terms, a “game state” is just the score — but it’s also how the score affects the way the game is played. Think about it:

• When a team is winning, they might become more cautious or defensive.

• When a team is losing, they often take more risks, throw more players forward.

• At 0–0, both teams are usually trying to feel each other out.

For junior players, recognising the game state is like learning when to speed up, when to slow down, and how to play smart — not just fast.

Why It Matters for Kids

Kids don’t instinctively adjust their behaviour based on the score. That’s something they learn over time. Coaches will use phrases like:

• “We’re 1–0 up, let’s manage the game.”

• “We’re chasing the game — we need more pressure up front.”

• “Stay switched on, it’s 0–0 again.”

They’re helping players understand not just the what, but the why of the moment.

What Parents Can Do

You don’t need to yell instructions or become a sideline tactician. But here’s how you can support:

• Be patient if things shift — like players being moved into new roles when protecting a lead.

• Avoid post-game blame — sometimes kids did the right thing for the game state, even if it didn’t work out.

• Praise smart choices — “I saw you held your position when we were ahead — that was clever.”