The Educated Parent (pdf document)
PARENT’S ROLE
- Remember that children play organized sport for their own fun. They are not miniature professionals.
- Provide transportation to and from all practices and games ensuring that the player is at the practice or game on time. If unable to attend, notify the coach beforehand.
- Stay and watch practices as well as games and lend the players your support in a positive manner. Do not point out their mistakes, leave that up to the Coach; praise their efforts and accomplishments.
- Ensure your child brings all equipment to and from all practices and games. Remember shin guards and soccers shoes are mandatory, and don’t forget the water!
- Be on your best behaviour. Don’t use abusive, insulting, profane language or gestures, or harass players, team officials, game officials or other spectators. if you do, you will be asked to leave the field.
- Sit on the opposite side of the field as the Coach and the team, so as to not distract the player.
- Applaud good plays or attempts by your own team as well as the opposing team.
- Show respect for the opponent’s, without them there is no game!
- Condemn the use of violence in all forms.
- Always encourage players to play according to the rules.
- Always be supportive of our Referees, even when you don’t agree with their decisions – remember, they are just kids!
- Allow your child to be a child.
BEING A SOCCER PARENT
- In competition, someone always loses. If you do win, do it gracefully, not boastfully. If you lose, do not allow your child to become negative.
- Too much competition, too soon, can slow down a child’s progress in skill development.
- Avoid material rewards. Build an attitude of “the rewards lie in the fun of being able to play.”
- Kick the ball around with your child, when you are invited to do so.
- Be a good listener. Make them feel important, and let them know that they are contributing to a team effort.
- Disagreements with the Coah or Officials do not belong on the soccer field. Questions, input and positive suggestions should be voiced to the Coach and/or Association without the youth player present.