The Role of Parents in Athletics

(Source: Bruce Brown)

Three times where parents can help

children’s performance and to create great

memories

BEFORE THE GAME

DURING THE GAME

AFTER THE GAME

BEFORE THE 1ST GAME:Parents ask themselves

Why do I want my child to play this sport?

What goals do I have for her?

If there are roles, what role do I want her to play?

How will I decide if it’s a successful season?

BEFORE THE 1ST GAME:CHILD ANSWERS THE

SAME QUESTIONSWhy are you playing?

What goals do you have?

What do you think your role will be on the team?

What is a successful season?

IF YOUR CHILD’S ANSWERS ARE THE SAME AS YOURS, SUPPORT YOUR CHILD. IF YOUR CHILD’S ANSWERS DIFFER FROM

YOURS, THEN DROP YOUR GOALS AND ACCEPT

THEIRS.

KIDS MUST HAVE A PASSION FOR WHAT THEY

ARE INVOLVED IN. DEVELOP MULTIPLE

PASSIONS AT A YOUNG AGE.

NEXT STEP:RELEASE YOUR DAUGHTER TO THE GAME AND TO THE COACH.RED FLAGS:“We won”- no, “they won”.

Trying to solve your daughter’s problems for her. Let her grow!

Yelling at an official

Coaching from the sidelines

Yelling at your child or someone else’s child during the game

Hanging on to a loss longer than your child

Your child avoids you after the game due to embarrassment or anger

DURING THE GAME:Be there to bring positive energy

Model appropriate behavior

One instructional voice (Coach!)

Focus on the team

Choose one role: player, coach, spectator, official

AFTER THE GAME:Save your analysis

Give your child time and space

Be a confidence builder-

-I love watching you play

-I enjoyed watching your team

-You are such a good teammate