How to be a good sports parent
Your child's fall sports season has likely started, which means you've likely sat through his or her games. Which means it's time to review behavior again.
Parents at games can drive me nuts. I love it when they shout "pass!" while the coach shouts "shoot!" And some parents think they're helping if they can get their kid a hit, a goal or a basket; I say the problem comes when parents look at youth sports as education, not entertainment. Pay your money and yell at the Dolphins if you want; at your kid's game, maybe it's better to bring a lollipop. By the time you take it out of your mouth to yell, the play is usually over.
With that in mind, here are five major points in the The National High School Athletic Coaches Association's parent code of conduct.
1. Be a positive role model through your own actions to make sure your child has the best athletic experience possible.
2. Be a team fan, not a "my kid'' fan.
3. Weigh what your children say; they will tend to slant the truth to their advantage.
4. Don't instruct your children before or after a game -- it might conflict with the coach's plans and strategies.
5. If you as a parent have a concern, take time to talk with coaches in an appropriate manner, including time and place.
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