We’ve all seen that one parent who turns youth sports into a chaotic scene, yelling at kids from the sidelines. There are two types of sports parents: those who quietly cheer and enjoy the game, and those who act like it’s the World Series, cursing and shouting. Author and blogger Jamie Rivers, a self-identified “soccer mom” married to a former professional athlete, urges us to embrace the first approach.
In a recent post, Rivers shared her “Soccer Mom 101” tips that every sports parent should heed. She encourages parents to take a seat, relax, and check their shirts. If it says “Coach” or “Referee,” then feel free to vocalize your thoughts. If not, it’s best to keep quiet. This advice comes from someone who knows the pressures of the game, and it’s vital for maintaining a positive environment for our kids.
Rivers, who describes herself as a fiercely protective mom, has a suggestion to help parents keep their voices down: bring lollipops. “Pop one in your mouth as soon as you sit down,” she advises. “This will serve as a reminder that kids are leaving sports in droves, predominantly due to parents acting out on the sidelines.” The essence of playing sports should be fun, not filled with the stress of adult expectations.
A photo accompanying her post shows Rivers and her wife, demonstrating the importance of support over critique. If a former Olympian can stay calm and be a supportive presence, we all can follow suit.
Rivers concludes her advice by reminding parents to let kids play and allow officials to do their jobs. Cheer for your child with encouraging phrases like “great job” or “keep it up,” and steer clear of negativity. The goal is to foster a love for the game, not create an environment filled with tension.
And don’t forget to share lollipops with other parents; they’ll appreciate the gesture while you cleverly promote a more positive sideline atmosphere.
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In summary, sports parenting should focus on support and enjoyment rather than aggression and chaos. By following these tips, we can create a better experience for our children and everyone involved.
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