What Happens On The Field Stays On the Field

We've all experienced it, you have the parents that sit silently and nervously as they watch their child play ball and then there are other parents who tend to get overly verbal when their child doesn't perform the way they expect them to.

We as parent have to remember that we are role models and that we are setting an example for them as well, even if we are on the bleachers.

One of my favorite quotes by Heywood Hale Brown is "Sports do not build character.
They reveal it.
" A great athlete is one that is respectful on and off the playing field. It is our job as parents to make sure we remind our kids of this.

No matter what sport your child plays, the same rules of etiquette apply. Take some time to have a discussion with your kids about good sportsmanship throughout the season. They are exposed to good and bad in every sport and talking with them helps them understand what is acceptable and what is not.
Here are some tips to consider: 1. Play fair. Follow and understand the rules of the game. Ask your coach a question if you don't understand something.

That is what they are there for.

2. Avoid arguments with coaches or game officials. That means accepting the judgment calls of the officials whether you like it or not.
Parents, that means you too! 3.

Listen to the coach.
Talking while your coach is talking is disrespectful and distracting to other team members.
4.
Be a team player. That means helping get the dugout ready to start the game and helping clean up when the game is over.
5.
Respect the other team's effort.

Be sure not to yell negative comments about the other team or any player from the dugout.
Always thank the other team at the end of the game, even if you lost.

6.

Be supportive of your teammates. If your teammate struck out, make them feel better about it by telling them they will do better next time. 7. End the game smoothly.

If you won, don't gloat and if you lost don't pout and make excuses for why you lost.

Learn from your mistakes and move on.
Parents please remember: Your kids are watching you! They will take their cues from your behavior.
If you over-react to a bad play or get upset when an error is made they will too. Slow down, take a deep breath and remember - it's just a game! The errors and losing are all a part of the life lessons that they are learning.
Now, let's go out there and play ball!