We are working with the kids to hear OUR voices as their coach and to learn good sportsmanship. As we have emphasized in tournaments and games, we want our parents to enjoy the game and cheer for our kids. However, please:
no coaching on the sideline,
no instructions on what you want your son to do,
no negative comments to our players
do not address referees or question calls
Remember, screaming instructions takes away from our kids’ ability to make decisions on their own. Our primary goal in their soccer learning is for them to learn to make decisions on the field. They will make mistakes and they will learn from them. That is okay. We do not want robots on the field executing overly rehearsed plans and jumping at each instruction screamed from the sidelines. Improvisation and decision-making are critical to their soccer learning. When our players do something good, feel free to cheer positive comments such as “nice shot, way to be first to the ball, nice defense, way to hustle...."
Individually, our coaches and players have developed a good reputation with sportsmanship that we want to continue with Chicago United FC. Parents on the other team may engage differently, they may shout at the ref, they may treat their own players differently, they may cheer with more negative comments. You may be tempted to engage in a heated conversation with members of the other team. It’s never worth it so let’s do everything to stay above anyone who takes this approach. Please watch the following video which is part of English Premier's goal to improve RESPECT within the game of soccer:
