Soccer Parenting... What do I need to know?

Being a Soccer Parent at CR United:

•  Provide necessary transportation for the player(s) to all practices, games, tournaments, and other events.

•  Ensure players arrive for such events and are picked up on time.

•  Provide player fees and traveling expense when possible.

•  Plan vacations, camps, etc. to avoid conflict with scheduled team events. Inform coaches in advance of all absences.

•  Help with concession stand, fundraising or other events of the team or club.

•  Provide positive encouragement to players; such as attendance at practices, games, and tournaments, as well as appropriate comments and cheering.

•  Let the coaches coach and the players play.

•  Inform the coaches of any special needs a player may have (allergies, injuries, etc).

•  Provide appropriate feedback to coaches or the club when requested, or as appropriate.

•  Show respect to all players, opponents, referees and coaches.

•  Attend parent meetings.

•  Say only positive things on the sideline.

•  Communicate with the coach, but not during the game.

•  Support the team in the area of assigned responsibility, such as game refreshments, transportation, fields, CRU tournaments, publicity, phoning, and out-of -town tournaments.

•  Win gracefully, not boastfully. Lose without being negative.

•  Too much competition, too soon, can slow down a child’s progress in skill development.

•  Make fun and technique development your first priority. Focus on effort – not winning.

•  Your child’s coach will need all the support and help you can offer. Please make yourself available to volunteer all the time you can spare.

•  Disagreements with the coach or officials do not belong on the public soccer field. Questions, input and positive suggestions should be voiced to the coach and/or Club in an adult atmosphere (youth players not present).

•  The overall purpose is to enjoy the game and the opportunity to be with your son or daughter on the field of play.

•  Support the entire team, not just your child.

•  Try these questions after the game: Did you have fun? Did you play your best? Did you learn anything to help you in your next game?

• Be aware of MYSA soccer programs that may help your child’s development such as the Olympic Development Program (ODP).