First year coaching 2nd/3rd grade level. If you have a key player that commits 3 fouls in the first half, would you typically start him in the second half, or try to save him for later in the game? Normal back up for this player/position was out sick. Had a lead at half time, but we ended up losing the game by 3 points and struggled with scoring...only 2 points in second half. I am second guessing myself on not starting the player as this could have possibly changed the tempo of the game? Any thoughts?

Don't beat yourself up over this... your #1 goal for kids this age is for them to have fun... and for you to teach them a little somehing about the game..... its a tough age group to begin with so God Bless you for working with them.

I was a varsity coach.... my rule of thumb was like this.... 2 fouls in the first qtr. - you sit...... 3 in the 2nd, you sit..... I would start that player but if he picked up his 4th he sat... and then I would hold them out until the last 4-5 minutes. But every game is different - the longer you coach the more you will become comfortable with your decisions.

Just remember your #1 goal right now. Good luck and have fun with them

Every coach has different strategies/philosophies. Coach the style the best suits you. However, my rule is to sit a player once they commit a 2nd foul in the first half. If my team can get a lead and keep it with the player on the bench, I will continue to sit the player. However, if I am losing and it appears my team will lose control of the game without that player, then I will consider playing the player.
I really think the decision will vary from game to game. Best of luck.