It’s that delightful time of year again. The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and soccer season is in full swing. Our family can be found at the soccer field multiple times a week, and honestly, we relish every moment.
Watching my child, along with her teammates, embrace the joy of soccer is a highlight of our lives. But let’s get real—some of you on the sidelines are ruining this experience for the rest of us.
Picture This
Picture this: you arrive at the soccer field on a gorgeous spring day. Kids are stretching, parents are setting up their chairs, and there’s a warm sense of community as everyone exchanges greetings. All seems perfect until the game begins.
And Then, Here Comes the Shouting
That lovely atmosphere of enjoyment quickly dissipates as you transform into a different version of yourselves—loud, aggressive, and frankly, a bit frightening. You might think you’re “supporting” your child, but trust me, that is not the case.
During a recent game, my partner and I made the unfortunate choice to sit near a trio of parents from the opposing team. The moment the whistle blew, their relentless barrage of yelling commenced. It was non-stop throughout the entire match.
Their “cheering” consisted of phrases like: “Go go go!! Pick it up! WIN THAT! I SAID WIN THAT!!” and countless other commands that only added to the chaos. It was not just annoying; it was downright counterproductive.
Understanding the Impact
These young athletes dedicate hours during the week at practice, and they already have a coach—someone they trust to guide them. Why add another layer of coaching from the sidelines? Your loud commands aren’t helping; they’re distracting.
To illustrate, imagine training your new puppy. You’re watching the trainer while shouting commands like, “Make him sit! No, over here! Faster!” How do you think the trainer would respond? Not positively, I assure you, because he knows what he’s doing.
Now, picture yourself at a work presentation where a crowd shouts things like “GO FASTER! NO, THAT’S TOO FAST!” You would leave feeling frustrated, not uplifted. That’s the impact your sideline antics have on your child—and mine too, by the way.
Remember the Purpose
Remember, this is youth soccer, not a professional league. The kids are out here to enjoy themselves and play the game they love. So, please settle down in your folding chair and let them have their fun.
If you truly want to be supportive, try clapping, whistling, or offering encouraging phrases like “You’re doing great!” But if that feels too tame for you, perhaps it’s best to wait in your car until the game is over.
Conclusion
The day is lovely, and the game should be a joyous experience for everyone involved. Don’t let your overzealous behavior spoil it.
For more insights on parenting and related topics, feel free to check out one of our other blog posts here. And if you’re looking for comprehensive information about home insemination, visit Make a Mom for top-notch resources. Additionally, the CDC offers excellent guidance on reproductive health.
In summary, let’s all strive to create a more positive environment at youth sports. Support the kids’ love for the game without unnecessary noise; it’s what they deserve.
Leave a Reply