Parents/spectators have a great influence on children’s enjoyment and success in football. All children play football because they first and foremost love the game – it’s fun. It is important to remember that however good a child becomes at football within the club, it is important to remember that positive encouragement will contribute to:
- Children enjoying football
- Children playing as a team
- A sense of personal achievement
- Self-esteem
- Improvement in your child’s skills and techniques
A parent’s/spectator’s expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude towards:
- Other players
- Officials
- Managers
- Spectators
Parents and spectators in the club should remain positive and encouraging towards all children, not just their own.
Parents and spectators should:
- Attend every mini soccer session and tournament they can (or ensure that a responsible adult is present)
- Not force an unwilling child to participate
- Applaud the opposition as well as their own team
- Avoid coaching the children during the game
- Not shout at players, coaches or officials
- Respect the referee’s decision and encourage all players to abide by the Laws of the Game
- Give attention to each of the children involved and not just the most talented
- Give encouragement to everyone involved
- Not use or tolerate inappropriate language
- Ensure their child wears the full Club kit at all mini soccer sessions and tournaments and other relevant times and as may be directed by the Head Coach
- Ensure their child wears appropriate lower leg protection (shin pads) at all times of play
- Ensure that if their child wears corrective lenses that these are appropriate for contact sports and safe for their child and other players
- Ensure that their child does not wear watches or jewelry whilst playing
- Ensure that their child does not take part in mini-soccer sessions or tournaments if ill or injured
Parents and spectators should value the importance of volunteer coaches and referees and offer their full support.