Whatever you do, just love them. But that certainly is not enough by itself. If I have that same love for pole-vaulting but am not gifted to vault or not schooled in the techniques to vault with effectiveness, I should do what it takes to learn, if I desire potency. The view of the youth minister who feels they don't need training must view their role as someone who simply leads games and hangs out with youth. Perhaps this is one of the factors contributing to the low perception of youth ministry within and without the Church.
People get the idea that anyone can do it.
After all, they reason, it just requires common sense, a flashy personality, and a love for fast food. There are many avenues into professional youth ministry. Some programs and schools are more effective than others in preparing someone to be a pastor to youth. But I also believe it is incumbent on called ones to go to their ministry tasks armed with skills and knowledge, passion and principles, cultural awareness and theological vision. Take some time to remember how you came to be involved in youth ministry.