Play nice

During the past few years I have gotten more involved in youth sports.  I ranted a bit last week about the sorry state of Madison's fields.  Although that remains a concern, I find it as troubling that sometimes we, as coaches and parents, fail to realize what it is we are doing when we agree to help our kids. 

As I enter mid-season of softball/soccer season I would like to offer some advice to those who may have lost sight.

First, it is OK to keep score.  Kids do need to know there are winners and losers.  I never liked the idea of participation trophies so please, when we reach third grade we should be awarding successes and teaching how to deal/cope with losing. 

Having said that, we must not make winning and losing the sole emphasis.  Our kids our relying on us to teach them basic fundamentals, strategy and more than anything, a love and appreciation for the game.  Teamwork and camraderie are as important as anything.  I was encouraged by our team tonight when our game was forfeited due to a scheduling conflict.   When given an option to stay or go home, our group wanted to stick around and play for an hour.  I am sure Hannah Montana or PlayStation was tempting them.  But, on another glorious spring day, an hour on the baseball diamond was second to none.  Keeping these kids fit, hungry to learn and having fun: that is job #1.

So, if a call does not go your way when the game begins...turn the other cheek and move forward.  There is no room, kindergarten through eighth grade, for coaches yelling at officials, umpires, and certainly not kids.  There will be plenty of time for that once high school comes around.

Also, if a parent has something to say about your coaching, tell them quite calmly, "If you do not like the job I am doing feel free to sign up next year to coach."

I understand we are all far from perfect.  God knows I am as flawed as the lot of you.  But, when you are in a position of leadership, in charge of young impressionable minds, I urge you to think before you speak.  And remember these kids will look at these days for the rest of their lives.

I guarantee you positive actions will provide positive memories.

Visit Henry Bisco's other blog at guidetosomewhere.blogspot.com.