Volunteer coaches are adults who love sports and enjoy working with and being around young people. They understand kids will make mistakes and even throw tantrums from time to time. What we don’t understand is why parents have to throw tantrums too. All around the world, reports show of parents (adults) fighting, shouting and criticising referees, players and coaches and even the kids.
As a parent, you need to model sportsmanship to your child, and you can start by practicing three simple strategies at your child’s next game:
- Avoid negative talk about the coach (and others). If you haven’t anything positive to say than say nothing.
- Ask what you can do to help.
- Thank the Coach for his time and get your child to do the safe.
“Parents, coaches and players should realise that they are all on the same team. Enjoyment and success can be assured if this is a harmonious 3-way partnership. When all three are working together for the benefit of the player and his development, there is a much greater chance that this young talent will reach his full potential”
Most coaches want to give their players a positive experience. That’s why it’s so important that you focus on what’s best about your child’s coach instead looking for negatives. Sometimes, this can be difficult when you’re surrounded by other parents who just want to be negative, complain and constantly question or challenge a coach’s decisions. But this a perfect opportunity for you to be a positive role model, for your child, other players and other parents. Don’t be afraid t shout down the negative talkers.
Be a Positive Parent
One complaining onlooker can quickly infect everyone around him with feelings of anger, jealousy and ingratitude. After a few games, that kind of negative talk can become the norm at every game. You can help squelch the negativity by committing yourself to staying positive and modeling supportive, encouraging behaviours. All you child wants is for you to be supportive of them and their team.
When others around you start complaining or disrespecting a coach, don’t fuel the fire by joining in. Stay quiet. If it continues, sit somewhere else – by other parents who are more positive or by yourself, if necessary. That might be enough to get noisy complainers to change their tone. If you feel the need to speak to a complainer personally, do it calmly and with respect. let them know the negative affect they are having on everyone.
You might say:
‘We’re supposed to be role models for the kids. Let’s avoid any negative talk about the coaches and compete with character. Let’s be positive and encouraging, let’s praise a little more and instruct less.
You can model sportsmanship by making only positive and supportive comments or statements about the coach in front of players and other parents. Also, ask the coach what you can do to help create a positive experience for the team. You may be able to help out in some way, you never know.
Most importantly, don’t forget to say “Thank you!” And say it often. Make it a point to show your appreciation after every training and at matches. Encourage your child to do the same. By practicing these three strategies – avoiding negative talk, helping out and saying thanks – you can teach your child a lifelong lesson about sportsmanship and competing with character, also in life saying THANKS goes along way!!!
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