Parent, fan and coach behavior can make or break a kid’s soccer experience. Just imagine how you’d feel if your every move put you at risk for an unpleasant scene!  Spare the kids, and you’ll all enjoy the game more. Some things to make clear before the season begins:

• Encourage parents to cheer for all the players. But be sure parents know the difference between cheering and the impassioned urging that sometimes takes place. Parents who try to instill “the will to win” by screaming at their miniature gladiators only make kids tense and confused about the goals of the sport. 

• Discourage parents from coaching from the sidelines. Coaching is not their job and, again, confuses the players.

• Point out that refs, especially young ones, are doing a difficult and thankless job, are allowed to make mistakes and deserve their support.

• Point out, too, that criticism of the ref often leads to frustration and reprisal against the protesting team. If there is to be any discussions with the officials, it is the coach’s responsibility - never the fans’, parents’ or captain’s.

• Legitimate grievances will be received if a team doesn’t get a reputation as “complainers.”

• Never allow a spectator or coach to abuse or malign a player, referee or other personnel. Ever.