|
I coached my son in little kids basketball and soccer. I was pleased as punch that he was out there having fun and learning how to get along with kids and learn something about the game and himself. And about dealing with losing and bad calls. If I look back carefully, I can say that the KIDS were the ones who were the LEAST concerned about the referees. The game is for the kids. When I watched my kid play (seasons when I wasn't coaching him), I never said a word about the officials. It just isn't important to me. His enjoyment of the game is most important. Parents need to step back and realize that this is about the kids, not them! I was fortunate to have my kid in leagues where winning was not stressed. There are two concepts of youth sports: (1) pro mode - where trophies and uniforms and winning and standings are important (2) developmental mode - where teaching kids about the sport and getting along are important. Every survey that I have ever seen of kids' attitudes toward sport has resulted in the kids putting FUN as their number one reason for playing. Winning is always ranked #5 or lower.
|