This week, the weekly parent tip focuses on respecting officials, a component of Honoring the Game code: ROOTS
Responsible Sports Parent Tip of the Week:
“Some officials are learning the game, just like your child. Avoid criticizing them when you think they’ve made a mistake. Officials have a tough job, and we couldn’t have games without them.”
During competition it’s easy to forget that the officials may very well be just beginning to referee soccer games, and learning as they go. Respecting officials is one component of ROOTS, the acronym that stands for Rules, Opponents, Officials, Teammates and Self, which helps us remember the code of Honoring the Game.
As a Responsible Sport Parent, we aim to conduct ourselves by this code. Honoring the Game is one of many opportunities where we as parents can lead by example. When our children notice that we keep our temper in check, for example when an official misses a call, they are more likely to do the same, and not overreact, which is the basis of bad sportsmanship.
For an easy reminder, download and print Introducing “Honoring the Game” to your child.
Officials are an integral part of the game on the field, and we should prepare our athletes before competition how treat officials during the game and after they make a call we don’t agree with.. In the section, Honoring the Game Tools, we have some tips to help you, as a Responsible Sport Parent, recognize and capitalize upon teachable moments. When an incident occurs, whether something covered in the media or something you and your children experience during their own games, let your kids know what you think about it. Better yet, ask them to talk about it even before offering your opinion.
If our kids come to the conclusion that something is or isn't Honoring the Game and put it into their own words, they are more likely to retain what they have learned.
Also in the section of Honoring the Game Tools, are game day tips for before, during, and after the game to help you be aware of what you’re communicating to your kids and their coach.
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