Some kids love playing youth sports, but their parents might love it even more. The thing is, for some moms or dads who were athletes themselves when they were younger, when they see their kids excel in sports, they wonder if their kid has what it takes to make it to college or even the pros. And that can put a lot of pressure on the kids that can take away from the fun.
Steve Borelli, aka Coach Steve, spent a decade coaching his two sons’ youth sports teams, a role he took very seriously. He’s seen the good, the bad and the ugly from parents during his time coaching, and he shares these tips for moms and dads that he says are the recipe for a winning season:
- Don’t fear failure - No one’s perfect and there will be times your child won’t succeed … and that’s great. Instead of worrying over them making a mistake on the field or court, try to remember that it’s a chance for them to learn something that will make them an even better athlete.
- Don’t yell or interfere - “Leave that to the coach,” Coach Steve advises. Shouting directions to your son or daughter while they’re playing will just confuse them and their teammates. Save those instructions until you can talk to them after the game, but please, keep cheering for them as much as you can.
- Own the results - “Whether the team wins or loses, it won’t affect whether your child gets a college scholarship. I promise,” Coach Steve says. “In fact, if you want to go there, college coaches want to see how athletes react to defeat.” So, encourage your kid to support a teammate who might have made a mistake during the game by putting an arm around them instead of pouting over a loss.
- “It’s sometimes hard to see the value of these tips in the heat of the moment,” the coach explains. “Catch yourself and stick with them. It will pay off.”
Source: USA Today
Scott's Thoughts:
- Your kid wants to have fun out there, not help you relive your glory days as an athlete!
- I have seen some ridiculous parents. You wouldn't believe the stuff they yell at the refs, coaches and even opposing team! Grow up you turds!
- I don't believe in participation trophy's, but it is ok to console your kid when they don't always win.