As part of an initiative with Active Canberra, the 26th/27th August round of the ActewAGL Junior League will be the ‘Let Kids be Kids/Silent Sideline Round.’
The idea behind the round is that children will get to play in a positive, criticism-free environment with Parents, supporters and coaches on the sidelines bound by a number of rules.
- There is to be no negative shouting, directing of players or negative gestures from the sidelines
- Coaching staff to only speak to players at halftime and/or when making changes
- Clapping & cheering encouraged for goals scored and for good play from both sides
- No questioning of the referee in charge of game (if required, please call sideline keeper over to your sideline)
Let Kids be kids – the icons
Sporting stars talk about their personal experience of poor sideline behaviour when they were kids with the simple message ‘let kids be kids’.
From playbytherules.net.au |
Where would junior club sport be without mums and dads? Who would ferry children back and forth between sporting fixtures, hand out half-time oranges, wash uniforms and make sure players arrive on time wearing both boots?
We all know that, if not for mums and dads, we would struggle to find enough club administrators, referees, coaches, scorers and line markers, and the spectator stands would be bare. Without a doubt, they are an invaluable resource and an essential part of any sport.
But what about those parents who turn ugly? You know the type. They scream instructions from the sidelines, admonish the referee (who is often barely a teenager), challenge the coach, sometimes storm onto the playing field or even get into a punch-up with an equally passionate opposing team parent. It happens.
So what can we do about it? What role do coaches play? How about club administrators? How can parents successfully tread that line between supportive and aggressive?
Tips for mums and dads
- Be a good role model. Children watch and learn from you, so make sure you set a good example.
- Avoid a ‘win at all costs’ attitude. Although you may think winning is important, the focus for junior sport should be on fun.
- Be aware that your abusive behaviour may be against the law. Ask yourself, ‘Would my mother be upset or offended by what I am saying or doing?’ If the answer is yes then it’s best to sit down and be quiet.
- Try not to be critical of coaches, referees or umpires. Many are volunteers who give their time to make sport possible for all our children, and some are just learning. If you have some constructive advice for them, leave it until after the game or have a chat with the head coach or referee.