Parental evaluation carries a great deal of weight with our children. The attitude shown by parents at games towards their child, the opposing team, the officials and the coach influences the childs values and behaviours in sports.
Criticism, disrespect for officials and opponents by over-anxious or over-protective parents focused on immediate success, rather than the long-range benefits undermines the purpose of sport and brings into the game stresses which adolescents cannot cope with effectively.
Therefore, a parent or spectator should:
1. Make every effort to learn the Laws of Association Football (soccer);
2. Applaud the opposition as well as your own team;
3. Refrain from coaching any player during a game;
4. Respect the decisions of the Game Officials at all time. Like the young players, they too, are being trained and are learning the game. Any concerns should be put in writing and forwarded through the Club. Abuse, of any kind, will not be tolerated;
5. Always be positive and encourage all players to participate, not force them;
6. Never use foul or abusive language at any time;
7. Co-operate fully with coaches, managers and other team officials. It is they who are donating their time to teach your children. They are providing a valuable community service, without regard for reward. Please demonstrate patience;
8. Remember that players participate in soccer for their enjoyment, not yours;
9. Focus on a players efforts and performance rather than winning or losing;
10. Encourage players always to play according to the rules and to settle disagreements without resorting to hostility or violence;
11. Never ridicule or yell at a player for making a mistake or losing a game;
12. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person regardless of their gender, age, ability, ethnicity or religion;
13. Teach the players the spirit of fair play by applauding every outcome. Win, lose, or draw;
14. Support the learning efforts of the players, coaches and Game Officials by demonstrating patience;
15. Understand that FCNW has the right to suspend their privilege as a spectator if they act in a manner that is deemed to be rude or otherwise offensive;
16. Agree to have as much fun watching the game as the players should have participating.