4 Tips for Keeping It Cool in the Bleachers at Youth Sporting Events

Up to bat….

We’re well into the baseball and softball season, but the year is filled with seasonal youth sports: soccer, basketball, volleyball, roller hockey, ice hockey, football, Lacrosse, tennis, golf…and so many more!

We’ve all heard the horror stories about parents being verbally and sometimes physically abusive at youth football or baseball games.

What is it about sporting events, more than other organized youth performances or competitions that brings out the worst from the adults sitting in the bleachers? You won’t hear someone shout sarcastically, “What do you call that?” during a musical or dance recital.

I don’t have any answers for “why,” only four heartfelt requests for parents and friends in the bleachers:

1.  Please, please remember these are kids…they are not a professional team!  Keep your comments positive, even comments about the opposing team players!

Making a great effort!

2.  Think before you make comments about the umpire. Respect the decision made by the umpire. Most often they are volunteers, doing the best job they can. Be a good example for your child.

Respect the Umpire

3.  Let the coach be the coach. Don’t instruct your child from the stands or point out his/her mistakes. 

Let the coach be the coach

4.  Praise a good effort, despite the score.

A good effort…

Learning to play fair, developing new skills, perfecting talents, and doing their best are only a few advantages for youngsters participating in team sports.  One of the most important lessons is practicing facing “big feelings” and overcoming fears.

As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face…we must do that which we think we cannot.”

Here’s to strength and courage and confidence for all our children!

Kate