When it comes to our kids, we are all prepared to do some running around and most parents know all about Mum or Dad’s “Taxi”. But when it comes to supporting our kids at Football there are a few rules to bear in mind. A previous post covered five things to remember, so here are five more for your list.
Respect the coaches.
Almost all junior football coaches are volunteers. This isn’t their day job and they don’t get paid to deal with stress and abuse because you want to have a moan at them. Respect the coaches and the tough, unpaid job they do and they will respect you and your child. The FA has codes of conducts for officials, players, coaches, and parents and it’s all about respect – http://www.thefa.com/my-football/football-volunteers/helpforparents/respect/myroleinrespect.
Don’t forget the basics if you want your child to succeed.
Moaning at the coaches doesn’t help anyone, but it’s particularly galling for them if you haven’t bothered to provide all your child needs to help them do their best. Ensure they are on time for sessions, they are alert and ready. So a good night’s sleep beforehand and not hyped up on energy drinks, and they have their correct kit with them.
Football kits are available from many places and sites like https://www.kitking.co.uk are great for team kits.
You can’t have eleven strikers.
You might think your child is a great goal scorer so should be permanently positioned up front, but there are ten more players on the field who all need a spot.
Playing in different positions will help develop other aspects of your child’s game and make them a better all-round footballer, so trust the coaches to pick the positions.
Competition can be counter-productive.
Many teams, particularly the under 10s, play in leagues where league tables are no longer used, so try not to obsess with who won what and how well (or not) your child’s team does. This isn’t the Premiership, it’s supposed to be kids enjoying themselves, having fun and keeping fit.
Coach and parents united!
If parents remember these suggested rules, support their children in their football as best they can, and trust and support their coaches, then everyone can come together, be happy and enable the children to be the best players they can be.