Hey Parents, it’s Ghille again. Part II is about how to support your athlete DURING a game. The fact that you show up for the event is awesome. I’m fine-tuning your enthusiasm so your athlete is happy to see you after the game.

DO go to their games and support them.

Going to your athlete’s games, meets, or events is a huge confidence booster.  Showing up as a loving and supportive parent, lets them know that you believe in them, which in turn helps them believe in themselves.  Sounds cheesy, but if they don’t believe they can do something, they will never accomplish it.  So if they don’t believe they are any good, they won’t ever reach their potential.

DON’T lose your cool!

Yelling at your athlete, their coach, or the other team is a serious DON’T! There is nothing more embarrassing for an athlete than a parent who is a loose cannon.  And do you honestly know anyone that responds well to threats?? I didn’t think so. If you are struggling to control your comments…take a walk or better yet, just move as far away as possible so you can scream in private.  Enthusiasm is appreciated.  A yell here and there definitely gets me fired up. But that’s when it’s from a coach, not a parent.

DO cheer for the team!

Knowing that you have fans behind you encourages everyone on the team. Even when a win seems impossible, positive cheering is the best way to support your athlete during a game.

DON’T cheer only for your athlete!

In a team sport, don’t make the mistake of only cheering just for your athlete.  The team isn’t winning because of the amazing play your athlete just made.  That unforgettable play happened because a combination of plays created by his/her teammates came together.

Look for Part III– Post-Game suggestions