As with our players, parents also represent PCHS. We expect parents to act with a higher set of standards than we expect from our players.

PARENTS ARE THE ROLE MODELS
 

1. Act as a leader. Leaders are people whose actions inspire others. A leader treats their children’s teammates, your peers, the coaches, opponents and officials in the same manner you would like to be treated. That means respect, dignity, and total sportsmanship at all times. If you set the example the players will follow the example you set.
    

2. Do not draw attention from the players. High School soccer is for the kids. If you find yourself becoming too emotionally involved in what’s happening on the field, take a step back and relax.
    

3. Act in a respectful manner. Nothing is better for a young player than having their parents on hand to watch them play. And nothing is worse for a player than hearing a parent using foul language, booing, taunting, screaming or making comments at, or about, players, coaches, fans or officials (that includes your team as well as your opponent). Offer applause and cheers of encouragement for both teams following a good play or a great effort, otherwise keep quiet.
    

4. Never question an official or express your feelings at a call vocally. Officials are part of the game. Parents should demonstrate proper behavior to the players. It is not the parent’s job (or the players) to officiate the game. Accept the call and move on. Remember being an official is not an easy job and mistakes happen and are part of the game.
    

5. Total motivation through confidence. Try and identify a positive from every game or practice to help build confidence. A player’s sense of achievement is the greatest motivator. Don’t analyze your player’s performance following every game. They know how they played and if you give them the opportunity and situation, they will open up to you. If you do, chances are they will avoid talking to you at all after games or worse yet, not want you at the games at all. Let your children come to you for advice.
    

6. Allow the game to be fun. So, help make it that way. Keep smiling. Encourage enjoyment and participation over results. If it’s not fun, something’s wrong.
    

7. Good communication is key. If you must talk with the coach, wait until the next day if you have an issue to discuss. Let the heat of the moment pass. Never make a scene in front of the team, as it’s embarrassing for you, your children and the coach. And chances are nothing will get resolved.
    

8. Enjoy the journey and put winning and losing into perspective. Games have winners and losers. Keep reminding your child about this reality and the need to deal with both outcomes.