Youth sports is supposed to be a very enjoyable time for the young person playing the sports. After all, the young person is involved in an activity he likes and there are plenty of friends to play with and against. However, many factors can take some of the fun and enjoyment away. As a result, coaches and league administrators have to institute some common sense rules so youngsters can learn how to play a little bit better and they enjoy themselves.
Coaching Standards
Coaches must always remember that their job is to help young people learn about their sport and get a little bit better by the end of the season. This is an activity for young people to grow, develop and have fun. It is also about learning to compete and try hard, but winning and losing is not how measurements should be taken. Coaches are not allowed to get involved because they want to win or build future professionals. Youth sports must be about accountability from a coach's perspective. While all players don't have equal ability, all players should be treated equally and given equal opportunity to improve. Yelling at players, umpires or other coaches is never permitted. Teach players how to accept winning and losing with equal grace and dignity. Coaches can never come to practice or game with alcohol on their breath or under the influence of any legal or illegal substance.
Parental Standards
Parents who enroll their children in youth sports have to realize that there may be periods of adversity and this will help their children grow. Parents have to let their children fit in the team concept. It is not about having your child develop into a star player. It's about all children getting an equal chance to play, grow, learn and have fun. Parents who are not coaching should let the coaches do their job. If they have questions, ask them in private and don't embarrass your children or others. Parents should not yell at their own kids, other kids, coaches, referees or league officials. Parents who have issues because they don't think their child is playing enough or is being treated fairly must bring up their issues carefully. Criticism without an alternative plan won't help anyone associated with the team. Violence is never acceptable at any youth sporting activity.
Player Standards
Players have to understand that playing an organized sport means they are usually part of a team. Even those who play individual sports -- tennis, golf or track and field -- have to realize that others are involved and coaches have to divide their time among all athletes. Players cannot behave in a disrespectful manner. They must act and speak politely to coaches, opponents and officials. Players who don't follow these rules will lose playing time. Players must learn about the value of sportsmanship, and must honor and respect opponents and other team's coaches.
Code of Conduct
In many youth sports, players, coaches, parents and other supporters must sign and adhere to a code of conduct before the start of the season. This gives everyone associated with the team some ground rules to base their behavior as a season progresses. A code of conduct can prevent incidents and violence from marring what should be a positive experience for all young people who participate.
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