TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR SOCCER PARENTS

I. ONE'S OWN BALL IS A MUST.
A soccer ball costs less than a baseball glove. A young player needs his or her own ball in order to improve ball-handling skills.
II. HAVE YOUR CHILD AT PRACTICES AND GAMES.
Your help is VITAL in teaching that responsiblity to the team includes being at practices and games and being there on time.
III. PRACTICE WITH YOUR CHILD AT HOME.
You don't have to know what you are doing and you don't need a large yard. Just the fact that your child is working with the ball is good even when only for five minutes.
IV. COME TO THE GAMES AS OFTEN AS YOU CAN.
You're special. It's more fun when you're there.
V. CHEER POSITIVELY.
Encouraging words make soccer more fun. "Don't", "Can't"' and such are four-letter words and shouldn't be yelled in public.
VI. LET THE COACH COACH.
If everyone shouts instructions from the sidelines, the kids will be confused. Let the coach make any needed adjustments.
VII. LET THE REFEREES REF.
There will be incorrect calls. Let S.A.Y. work with the league on this if necessary.
VIII. COMPLIMENT YOUR CHILD.
Recognize your child's individual performance. When inquiring ask: "How did you do?" Don't ask, "Did you win?"
IX. TALK TO YOUR COACH.
A coach is just a coach and doesn't remember everything. If something is on your mind, tell him or her.
X. REMEMBER, THIS IS JUST A GAME.
By itself, soccer is not important. What is important is the opportunity it gives your child (and you and me), to develop character.
TOUCHLINE, June 1992


PRINT THIS PAGE | CLOSE THIS WINDOW