<![CDATA[This study aims to describe the collective role of village youth in early childhood football development in Darupono Village, Kendal Regency (Peran Kolektif Pemuda Desa dalam Pengembangan Sepak Bola Anak Usia Dini di Desa Darupono, Kabupaten Kendal). Through a descriptive qualitative approach, this research is carried out in Desa Darupono, Kecamatan Kaliwungu Selatan, Kabupaten Kendal, with data collection techniques in the form of observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The results of the study show that early childhood football coaching in Desa Darupono not only focuses on the technical aspects of sports but also functions as a means of character education and strengthening community social capital. Village youth play a key role in organizing training activities, mobilizing community participation, and instilling the values of discipline, responsibility, cooperation, and sportsmanship in children. This activity also has significant social and economic impacts, strengthens community social cohesion, and preserves the culture of mutual cooperation. The main supporting factors for coaching include youth collective spirit, family support, and community participation, while the obstacles faced are limited facilities, lack of funds, and a shortage of licensed trainers. Overall, this study confirms that early childhood football coaching in Desa Darupono is a community-based development practice oriented toward character formation and social empowerment at the rural level.]]>
