As parents, many of us grew up in very competitive organized sports leagues. Winning was everything while having fun was secondary. This mentality did not focus on the children on the field playing or officiating.
Parents are role models for their children and they try to emulate them all the time. Sportsmanship, playing fair, and reacting to loss are all shown by parents. During the course of a season, it is important that children in recreational sports league know that they should be enjoying the sport.
We should make sure we setup an environment that is positive and affirmative for both our children but those on the other team or officiating the game. For instance, if a player from the other team scores a goal, it is perfectly okay and even encouraged to congratulate them. These are kids who need to know they are appreciated. At the same time, telling your own child and team that it’s okay when they make a mistake will do wonders in increasing their confidence.
At the same time, parents should remember their role within a game. They are the cheerleaders for the game. Coaches should coach, players should play, and the parents should cheer. Parents can often confuse their child by giving instruction during the game or even telling them inappropriate instruction. A few years ago, I was coaching a team of 5 years old kids. One of the parents was instructing his boy to elbow the other team members in an effort to make a goal. This is a non-competitive division with no score keeping. The point of this level is to teach the fun of the game. However, this parent was not only ruining this but also risking injury to small children.
We all value our own children but never forget that the child on the other team or child refereeing is also someone’s child. Think about how you would feel if that was your child and someone else was yelling at him/her? Be a parent, cheer and encourage all children and make the sport fun.
While I oversee a soccer league, this applies to any sports league designed to benefit children. Should you have any questions about MYSL or Surf Soccer or want to find out more details about soccer, feel free to contact me at president@myslsoccer.org.
Steve Haubrick is the MYSL/Murrieta Surf Soccer Club President.