Everybody knows that play-offs can be stressful. If you feel stressed in the stands, imagine the stress your coach or players feel. Instead of a game write up, I thought I would post an article about positive sports parenting. I hope that every team looks at this and remembers- this game is for the kids- encourage your child to have fun!
10 Commandments for Positive Hockey Parenting
1. Be positive with your child – they have accomplished something that few will ever be able to attain, by simply being a part of a hockey team. Never put your child down; encourage them.
2. Don’t criticize the coaches. They are responsible for taking many different personalities and molding them into a cohesive unit.
3. Encourage your child to follow the team rules. Getting them to practice/games on time, adhering to a team dress code, and rules of appropriate behavior, both on the ice and off, will make for a successful team and season.
4. Insist on good grades.
5. Don’t show jealousy of other players who might score more goals, get more assists or get more playing time. Each player has a job to do, and if everyone does his or her job well then success will come to the team. Jealousy is a detriment to every team.
6. Don’t be a know it all. The coaches know the talent of their players. They have the skills and knowledge to get the most out of their players. Let them do their job.
7. Insist that your child respect the team rules, game officials and show good sportsmanship all the time. The team does not tolerate unsportsmanship-like conduct both on and off the ice.
8. Encourage your children to believe in themselves and their ability as a team player. Positive input nets positive results.
9. Let the coaches have their time with the team after practices and games. That is when coaches can have the undivided attention of their team to discuss the practice and the game. Having a parent in the locker room can be a distraction to both the players and the coaches.
10. Encourage your child to have fun and play for the love of the game. Be a positive role model for your child and others associated with the team.
(USA Hockey Magazine, September)