Association of Christian Youth Sports

Parent Guidelines

The Ten Commandments of Parental Behavior at Sporting Events

Please review the ACYS sports commandments (below). We desire to create a healthy, competitive environment based on Christian values, rather than a win-at-all-costs attitude. All of our programs are designed and intended to instill good sportsmanship into every facet of ACYS for players, coaches, parents and fans alike.

Talk about the other kids on the team – indeed, on both teams – in the same manner you would want other parents to talk about your child. This is the golden rule applied to sports. Watching kids’ sports tends to be a social affair. When you’re making conversation on the sideline with your friends and neighbors, think about what you’re saying before you actually say it. To always be on the safe side, only voice praise for the other children.
It’s nice to give the coach a pat on the back when he or she wins. It’s even nicer when you give the coach a pat on the back after a loss. Remember that the vast majority of coaches are volunteers who are sacrificing their own time to help kids. So give them a well-deserved salute, especially when their team hasn’t fared well that day.
Don’t hesitate to give the ref, umpire or official a pat on the back, either. As you might have guessed, refs and umps are people, too. They like when parents and fans acknowledge their on-field efforts as well. Why don’t you lead the way?
Remind your child that it’s the effort that counts. We know all the kids want to win. That’s a given. But we also know that for every winning team, there’s also a loser. Be prepared to cushion your child’s disappointment after a loss by pointing out that he or she played hard and put forth a tremendous effort.
Avoid the P.G.A., the Post Game Analysis. When the game is over and your child climbs back into your car, avoid, at all cost, the detailed, excruciating post game analysis of everything she did right and wrong. Just let her chill out, savor the fun of having played, and relax. The absolute worst time for “friendly criticism” is immediately after the game.
Smile J. A lot. Kids’ sports are about having fun, and because kids take their behavioral cues from you, try at least to look like you’re enjoying yourself.
If you aren’t a “good sport” at games, the kids won’t be either. This should be self-evident. If you have set a pattern of being a sideline loudmouth who likes to yell and scream at the ref, coach, or opposing team, don’t be surprised when your kids start copying your behavior. You will have only yourself to blame.
Take the time to learn the rules of the game. A lot of kids these days are playing sports you may not be familiar with. So, if you don’’ know the rules of the game, why don’t you and your child learn them together? Besides, it’’ a good idea to read the rulebook. It might just help decide a dispute.
If you must make noise at the games, shout only praise and encouragement. If you’re a screamer and yeller, make certain that when you open your mouth, you’re only pouring-forth cheerful encouragement for your child’s team. There’s never any place for derogatory, snide, or sarcastic comments at kids’ games.
Above all, be there for your children. Support them, praise them and let them know you can always be counted on for unconditional love, regardless of the final score.