PARENTS

Keep It All in Perspective

Football is a game worth playing, but it must be kept in perspective. As parents you should encourage your children to participate in a variety of sports and to take part in other activities like music, drama, and art. These organized activities all have their place in the life of a child. Informal play without adult supervision is important, too. Youngsters should simply “get out and play” every chance they have.

Tips..…3 F’s

Remember, kids participate in sports for all kinds of reasons. They enjoy learning new skills, and testing these skills against others. They like the challenge and excitement. Winning and pleasing others are part of it, too, but they are not nearly as important as the simple pleasure kids get from being active, being with friends — being part of a team! The approach you take to coaching should reflect these desires. You’re on the right track if you concentrate on fun, fitness, and fundamentals.

Fun — Make it a great experience for the whole family — for players, coaches, officials, and fans!
Fitness — Aim for active participation for every child. In this way, sport will contribute to the mental and physical development of all participants.
Fundamentals — Focus on the basics. As children develop their skills, their enjoyment of the sport will grow.

What Parents Expect of Coaches

Make sport enjoyable
Respect children as individuals
Be a knowledgeable leader
Be safety conscious
Act in a mature and adult manner
Be fair
Respect rules and officials
Give equal opportunity for playing time
Plan activities effectively
Be approachable
Strive to win

Sport Parent Survey, Ministry of Government Services, Sports and Commonwealth Games Division, Government of B.C. (1994)