• Encourage
parents to cheer for all players. But be sure
parents know the difference between cheering and
the impassioned urging that sometimes takes
place. Parents who try to instill the "will to
win" by screaming at the miniature gladiators
only make the kids tense and confused about the
goals of the sport.
• Discourage
parents from coaching from the sidelines.
Coaching is not their job and, again confuses
the players.
• Point
out that refs, specially young ones, are doing a
difficult and thankless job, are allowed to make
mistakes and deserve their support.
• Point
out, too, that criticism of the ref often leads
to frustration and reprisal against the
protesting team. If there is to be any
discussions with the officials, it's the coach's
responsibility - never the fans', parents' or
captain's.
• Legitimate
grievances will be better received if a team
doesn't get a reputation as
"complainers".
• Never
allow a spectator or coach to abuse or malign a
player, referee or other coach. EVER.
ECSA
SOCCER PROGRAMS