Let's start with a disclaimer: I really love this game, I loved it all my life, still play it twice a week, I game it and I watch it as much as I can. I'm telling you this because I've been told this might cloud my judgement a bit.
My 11 year old plays soccer at a travel team. This is his 2nd season. It's a decent/ Ok team that I would describe as average slightly above average compared to the other teams we're seeing. Kids love the coach but also fear him in what I would describe a natural not so excessive way. I've seen him coaching and in my not so experienced opinion I think he's good. He also played the game professionally which is a huge plus.
My son is now playing right back, he's ok at it. He's disciplined. He's passing really well and extremely aggressive/physical for his age. He personally wants to be center forward which he used to play at school and community leagues. I think he'll do a better job in the middle to benefit from his physicality. My read is that he's worried he would be yelled at by the coach in the middle of the pitch given it's more difficult to nail down the positioning / movement there.
My son is not putting any extra effort here. Just practicing with the team, listening to the coach, but that's that. He needs to work on a few things proactively but he doesn't, again I know he's 11.
Part of the issue is that coach seems to have all players play equal times. I wish it was merit based so kids, including mine of course, would put the effort or sit on the bench.
I'm putting a lot of effort and money here. I don't have a car so renting a car every weekend for this. So a lot of money and again my kid is having fun but with really slow development.
Now with the questions:
When is the right moment to ask my son / pressure him for more? Just comparable effort to what my wife and I are putting?
Should I speak with the coach re having play time based on merits so it forces my son to practice and play well? Just some consequences for putting/ not putting the effort?
Should I speak with the coach re having him play at different positions to get him out of his comfort zone?
Sorry I know long post but all thoughts are appreciated and welcomed.