Do not force your children to participate in sports but support their desires to play their chosen sports. Children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment.  Make it fun.

 

• Encourage your child to play by the rules, Remember, children learn best by example, so applaud the good plays of both teams. 

• Do not embarrass your child by yelling at players, coaches, or officials.  By showing a positive attitude toward the game and all its participants, your child will benefit.

• Emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit your athlete.  De-emphasize games and competition in the lower-level groups.

• Know and study the rules of the game and support the officials on and off the field.  This approach will help in the development and support of the game.  Any criticism of the officials only hurts the game.

• Applaud a good effort in both victory and defeat and enforce the positive points of the game.  Never yell or physically abuse your child after a game or practice - it is destructive.  Work toward removing the physical and verbal abuse in youth sports.

• Recognize the importance of coaches.  They are important to the development of your child and sport.  Communicate with them and support them.

• If you enjoy the game, learn all you can about soccer - and volunteer.​