Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Soccer Parents
I have often heard coaches, referees (and sometimes players) say that the game would be so much better if the parents were not there. Don't get me wrong, parents are great (I am one) and can be a great addition to the game, but there are a few that give everyone a bad name. You have seen them, they yell at the players, know more than the coach (but won't volunteer) and either complain about every call the referee makes or says thank you (not generally appreciated). These same parents get on blogs and list serves and complain about the game they (actually their kids) lost because: bad refs, bad fans, rude players, bad field... fill in the blank). While they go on and on, their kids, the actual players have moved on getting ready for the next game and are probably friends with the opposing team (know by the parents as the dirty, cheating, etc., team). Oh and by the way, your child is not being scouted by x university at the U14 tournament. College coaches know that a large number of players will quit or be injured before they ever get to college so they focus on the seniors and juniors no matter what your club and trainer are telling you. So relax and enjoy your kids soccer and if you really want them to get a full ride to college focus on the SAT.
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2 comments:
Even more ridiculous is when the parents and the student fans get in fights with each other. Don't you have enough to fight about with your own teenager?
ps.- Go Bulldogs!
While I agree in part with what you have said, I have to say that we can only change what is in our power to change.
The best cure is to be the best referee possible. Know the LOTG, backwards and forward! Read and understand the USSF Advice to Referees. Dress professionally, conduct yourself professionally. In short, work to be the BEST possible referee. I have seen too many referees NOT act professionally. I have seen many NOT know the LOTG. If you know the LOTG, study the "art" of being a referee, take pride in your work, and perform as a professional should, you will have minimal problems.
Too many referees are timid, indecisive, and ignorant. Take control, but don't smother the game. If dissent is a problem, be prepared to pass out cautions and sendoffs to the players, ejections for the coaches, and abandon the match if the parents/spectators can't keep their mouths shut. BUT FIRST and ABOVE ALL, make sure that their complaints are not valid.
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