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Fair Play
A child learns by example. Much of what is seen and heard, and how the child is treated-on the field and off-can have lasting effects. An atmosphere that is fun and educational is likely to promote healthy self-esteem in youngsters, just as a negative and critical climate can have adverse effects. To promote an enjoyable environment, help your child follow a philosophy of "fair play."
Fair play also applies to parents and coaches. Here are some fair-play points for players, parents and coaches:
Player Pointers
Some things for players to keep in mind:
• Enjoy the game!
• Respect teammates, as well as opponents, whether they are winning or losing.
• Remember that the outcome is never as important as the lasting impression of warmth, understanding and pure enjoyment of playing.
• Remember that scoring is most thrilling when it rewards a true achievement.
• Recognize that playing to win is an essential component of competition, but seeking victory at any cost defeats the true meaning of competition.
• Show respect for the referees, umpires and judges at all times, and accept their decisions in a dignified manner.
• Lose gracefully, as well as win gracefully.
• Try your best.
Parent Pointers
Some things for parents to keep in mind:
• Understand that your child will make mistakes.
• Provide transportation to and from all practices and games or meets, and ensure your player is prompt not only in arriving, but also in departing.
• Attend practices and games or meets if your schedule allows. Lend the players your support in a positive manner. Emphasize their accomplishments and efforts.
• Make sure your child never talks with, or leaves with, strangers.
• Have your youngster bring the required equipment to and from all games and practices.
• Practice with your child.
• Avoid material rewards. Stress the joy of the sport.
• Listen. Make your child feel important and encourage contribution to a team effort.
• Be positive and don't criticize. If your child is not performing correctly or improving, suggest an alternate technique with the coach's guidance, such as, "That's pretty good, now how about trying it this way?"
• Be graceful-and not boastful-when your child's team wins.
• Be positive and provide encouragement when your child's team loses or your child fails to place.
• Make fun and technique-development top priorities when practicing.
• Support your child's coach and, before being asked, offer to help in any way possible.
• Don't disagree with the coach or referees on the field or in front of your child. Questions, input and positive suggestions should be discussed privately and calmly.
• Enjoy the excitement of the sport and the opportunity to be with your child.
Coach Pointers
Some things for coaches to keep in mind:
• Have fun!
• Keep winning and losing in perspective.
• Stress the players' appreciation of the game or activity.
• Allow players or participants to try a variety of positions or events.
• Utilize safe techniques and proper methods of play.
• Supervise and control players to avoid injury and conflict.
• Strive to maintain integrity within the sport.
• Know, understand and follow all the rules and policies set forth by clubs, leagues, state and national associations. Remember, the coach has final responsibility for the team and players.
• Encourage moral and social responsibility in players.
• Allow players to have fun, and give them positive feedback.
• Require a parents-only meeting at the beginning of each season and encourage attendance and positive participation. Be sure parents understand your philosophy and rules, and that everyone is sending a consistent message to the players.
Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.
