Guide to sport parenting - Part 2

In the last article I asked you to answer the question what values and principles do I want my son and daughter to adhere to? Hopefully you have been able to answer this question which will enable me to provide you some more advice on sport parenting. When you have established the important values and principles that you wish your son and daughter to demonstrate; the next task is for you to research an organization and coaching staff that reciprocates them.

 

All successful organizations, that have stood the test of time, will have a mission statement that will include its philosophies – find out what they are. Families should also be able to gain access to the coaches, players, and parents code of conducts. Before registering your son or daughter for the organization spend time learning the expectations the organization has of you as parents and your son/daughter as an athlete, and also what you should expect of the organization. Do your homework.

 

If everything seems to be a good match then register away, if not keep seeking out an organization that suits your values, principles, and expectations. After registration, it is common practice, of well run organizations to spend time with the parent group explaining the specific policies and procedures of the athletes and parents. This process should clearly explain all the do’s and don’ts. This meeting will logically take place at the start of the season/program and all parents and athletes should leave having all their questions and concerns answered.

 

The major purpose of this meeting is to allow the coaching staff to explain their expectations of the athletes and parents, and to lay down the simple “housekeeping” policies and procedures e.g. practice and competition procedures, reporting structure, first aid/emergency procedures etc… As parents you should also be fully aware of your expectations as confirmed by the coaching staff. One of the biggest areas of friction in youth sport is misunderstanding of these simple expectations.

 

After this meeting the competitive season will soon be underway and it is imperative that the players, parents, and coaching staff are consistent and true to their predetermined policies and procedures, to ensure all expectations are met. If this is the case all is well, if not….(to be continued).

Craig Dalrymple

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