You, the parent, are as equally important to your athlete’s positive lacrosse experience as the coach is of the team. In order for your athlete to get the most out of playing lacrosse, it is important that you do the following:
ONE:
Be supportive of your athlete by giving encouragement and showing an interest in his team. Positive reinforcement encourages learning and fun. Look for every opportunity to encourage and fill your son’s emotional tank.
TWO:
Attend games and practices whenever possible. Be sure to ask your athlete how he played, if he had fun, and/or his favorite part of the today’s practice/game - not whether the team won or lost.
THREE:
Be a positive role model by displaying good sportsmanship at all times to coaches, referees, opponents, fellow parents, and teammates. In other words, don’t be one of “those parents.” We all know those parents. Instead, look for every possible opportunity to contribute to our positive environment – whether it be acknowledging another player on the team, or showing appreciation for the coach, or walking away from or frowning upon negative discourse.
FOUR:
Let your athlete set his own goals and play the game for himself.
FIVE:
Let the coach do the coaching.
SIX:
Respect the decisions of the referee.
SEVEN:
Read the rulebook. A full understanding of the rules will help you to enjoy the game and educate others.
EIGHT:
Get to know who is in charge. Introduce yourselves to the leadership of the program (e.g. Coaches, Youth Director, Board members).
NINE:
Get involved. The best way you can support your athlete’s lacrosse experience is by becoming a volunteer for the team/club. Volunteers are always needed to do some of the following:
- Keep score
- Run the clock
- Keep stats
- Organize carpooling to practices and games
- Photograph players and games
- Join the Board
- Anything else that your imagination can dream up
TEN:
Sit back and enjoy the game. Remember, lacrosse is played for FUN. These are the some of the best times of our lives – let’s make memories we’ll cherish forever.