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Introduction
This
was sent to me by one of my sons football coach’s from last year, B. Miles
(A.K.A. Coach Bim). I don’t know where he found it but I think it applies to
all children’s sporting events, and I would like to share it with everyone.
Thank your parents for all their support.
Jim
Mavrokefalos
GOLDEN
RULES FOR PARENTS AT A SPORTING EVENT
Talk about the other kids on
the team-indeed, on both teams in the same manner you would want other parents
to talk about your child. This is the golden rule applied to sports.
Watching kid’s sports tends to be a social affair. When you’re making
conversation on the sidelines with your friends and neighbors think about what
you’re saying before you actually say it. To always be on the safe side, only
voice praise for the other children. That way, you’ll never go wrong.
It’s nice to give the coach
a pat on the back when he wins. It’s even nicer when you give the coach a pat
on the back after a loss. Remember that the coaches are volunteers who are
sacrificing their own time to help your kid. So give them a well-deserved
salute, especially when their team hasn’t fared well that day.
Don’t hesitate to give the
ref/umpire, a pat on the back either. As you might have guessed, refs/umpires
are people too. They like when parent’s and fans acknowledge their on-field
efforts as well. Why don’t you lead the way?
Remind your child that it’s
the effort that counts. We know all the kids want to win. That’s a given. But
we also know that for every winning team, there’s also a loser. Be prepared to
cushion your child’s disappointment after a loss by pointing out that they
played hard and put forth a tremendous effort.
Avoid P.G.A. the Post Game
Analysis. When the game is over and your child climbs into your car avoid at all
costs the detailed excruciating post game analysis of everything he did right or
wrong. Just let your child chill out, savor the fun of having played, and relax.
The absolute worst time for
friendly criticism is immediately after the game.
Smile a lot! Kid’s sports
are about having fun and because kids take their behavior cues from you, try at
least to look like you’re enjoying yourself.
If you aren’t a "good
sport" at the games, the kids won’t be either. This should be
self-evident. If you set a pattern of being a sideline loudmouth who likes to
yell and scream at your ref/umpire, coach or opposing team, don’t be surprised
when your kids start copying your behavior. You will have only yourself to
blame.
Take the time to learn the
rules of the game. A lot of kids these days are playing sports you may not be
familiar with. So, if you don’t know the rules of the game, why don’t you
and your child learn them together? Besides, it’s a good idea to read the
rulebook. It just might help win a dispute.
If your must make noise at
the games, shout only praise and encouragement. If you’re a screamer and
yeller, make certain that when you open your mouth; you’re only pouring forth
cheerful encouragement for your child’s team. There’s never any place for
derogatory, snide or sarcastic comments at kid’ games.
Above all, be there for your
children. Support them, praise them, and let them know you can always be counted
on for unconditional love, regardless of the final score.
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