Let the kids play. Let the coaches coach.
Game day is the highlight of the week for the players. It’s their chance to test what they’ve been learning and have fun competing. As parents, our role is simple: create an environment where they can focus, feel supported, and enjoy the game.
Here’s what we expect from all parents on game days:
👀 Watch, Don’t Coach
Please don’t yell instructions from the sideline. Many of you know I have been guilty of this in most of the games I have watched as a spectator. The time to coach is at home through the family support page or you are always welcome to come help out for outdoor practices.
Kids need to focus on one voice during the game, their coach’s. When a parent is yelling “Pass!” and a coach is saying “Dribble!” it creates confusion and stress. It also takes away their ability to make decisions on their own.
Let them learn. Let them play.
📣 Cheer for Effort
We love hearing parents cheer but keep it positive and focused on the right things:
- “Great hustle!”
- “Nice idea!”
- “Keep going!”
⚽ Celebrate the Right Things
It’s easy to get caught up in the score. But we’re here to build players, not just win games.
Look for the stuff that matters more in the long run:
- Defensive hussle
- Smart positioning
- Creative decisions
- Playing through mistakes
That’s what real growth looks like.
🙌 After the Game
Whether the team wins or loses, keep the post-game talk positive and brief.
A simple “I’m proud of you” goes a long way. If your child wants to talk about the game, great. If not, that’s fine too. Some of the best processing happens after they’ve had time to cool down.
In Short:
- Be loud for effort, quiet on instruction
- Praise what you want to see more of
- Stay respectful
- Let the coaches handle the strategy
We’re all working together to make this a great experience. Thanks for doing your part.