From Coaching Youth Soccer - 3rd Edition by the American Sport Education Program
Many coaches are parents, but the two roles should not be confused. Unlike your role as a parent, as a coach you are responsible not only to yourself and your child but also to the organization, all the players on the team (including your child), and the players’ parents.
Because of this additional responsibility, your behavior on the soccer field will be different from your behavior at home, and your son or daughter may not understand why. For example, imagine the confusion of a young boy who is the center of his parents’ attention at home but is barely noticed by his father/coach in the sport setting. Or consider the mixed signals received by a young girl whose soccer skill is constantly evaluated by a mother/coach who otherwise rarely comments on her daughter’s activities. Explain to your son or daughter what your new responsibilities are and how they will affect your relationship when coaching.
Take the following steps to avoid problems in coaching your child:
· Ask your child if he or she wants you to coach the team.
· Explain why you wish to be involved with the team.
· Discuss with your child how your interactions will change when you take on the role of coach at practices or games.
· Limit your coaching behavior to when you are in the coaching role.
· Avoid parenting during practice or game situations to keep your role clear in your child’s mind.· Reaffirm your love for your child, irrespective of his or her performance on the soccer field.
"From Coaching Youth Soccer-3rd Edition by the American Sport Education Program. Copyright 2001 by Human Kinetics Publishers, Inc. Excerpted by permission of Human Kinetics, Champaign, IL. Available in bookstores, by calling 1-800-747-4457, or visiting www.HumanKinetics.com. $14.95 plus shipping/handling."
