Sideline Shenanigans: Let Kids Play!

"What are you doing out there?? Get that ball! Don't let him beat you!!"

"Why is the coach running that play again?? It's not working!"

"This ref is unbelievable!! Favor the other team much??"

"Don't pass the ball, take it to goal like we talked about!!"

We see them.

We hear them.

They make us uncomfortable.

They are sometimes our friends. Our neighbors. And can even be our own family (gulp).

Imagine a young athlete bombarded by sideline screams – not from a coach, but a parent. It's stressful, distracting, and humiliating. Let's focus on cheering both teams and supporting our kids emotionally, not coaching from the stands.

✨Dear Sideline Screaming Parent,

Please, let the game be theirs! We all want our kids to succeed. But sideline yelling creates pressure, not passion. Imagine the thrill of a great play, the sting of a loss – all amplified by a parent's voice. These are their moments to learn, grow, and celebrate as a team. Let's cheer for both sides, applaud effort, and be their biggest fans. These precious years fly by. Let's create memories they'll cherish, not cringe at. Together, we can make youth sports a positive experience for everyone.

Sincerely,

The Parents in the Bleachers

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Let's strive to do the right thing on the sidelines and after the game:

👉Cheer for BOTH teams, especially when they execute a nice play or a great save

👉Applaud the effort as much as the achievement. "Great hustle #12!" "Way to get back #2!!" "Love the hustle, defense!!!"

👉Ask your kid after a tough game or loss, "how can I support you?"

👉Encourage your child to advocate for themselves (talk to coach, teammate, etc.)

✨BONUS: Find a kid on the other team and share some positive feedback with them

Cheering you on from the sidelines,

Coach Leah