It’s very frustrating for me as a coach, and a parent, when I get messages from students parents about negative things their Dude is having to deal with at such a young age. This game should be one of the best, most memorable times in these kids lives. We can’t control how others act, but we can do our best to make sure that we use every good or bad moment in our kids lives as a teaching moment. Parents, don’t ever let then slip by.
Here is a message to the Parents & Coaches out there…
Please be mindful of how you speak to your players. Just as we teach our children to think about how their words will affect others, we need to think the same way when speaking to our players. There is NO ROOM for comments that will put them down or belittle them.
As I have said before, don’t ever forget how tough this game was for you. If you are a Parent or Coach that uses words that put them down, I think it’s time to go home and look in the mirror. I hear all too often about Coaches who act like this. It’s moments like this that push players away from this game before the game has time to teach them all the lessons it has to offer.
As Parents and Coaches, we are leaders. It’s time to MAN UP and act like one at all times. If you are incapable of being a leader for these young Dudes, step back and let someone else take over that will be the right type of mentor.