Unruly Parents on the Rise

If you've been around youth sports for any period of time you've probably seen an angry parent or coach. Someone who screams at the referee, their chld, or another fan. Why do parents do this?

Even soccer moms do it... check out

this unruly parent who got out of hand at her child's soccer game. Incidents like this are rampant.

Why are parents so involved in their children's sports?

Parents are attaching their children's success to their own. There may also be a significant investment in time and money that parents are hoping will turn into a scholarship or even a professional sports career. Certain parents feel that an injury, being benched, or a bad call by the referee threatens that future.

Not rational, I know, but it's the kind of leap our minds can take in the moment. As in any pattern of bad decisions (overeating, smoking, etc.) we must think before we act. The coach is referee is not making us angry... WE are making ourselves angry!

Parents need to have reasonable expectations, stay calm when children make mistakes, look for positives, and praise participation. I think parents should encourage their children to improve their skills at sports in order to be competitive and enjoy the sport more - but only if the child chooses to play the sport in the first place.

Do you think you are one of these parents? Don't sign your child up for anything they don't ask for. Let them choose their sports and activities. Try not to say ANYTHING during a game UNLESS it is positive.

Take a good sportmanship class. If your community doesn't offer one, ask them why not?

Do you have any ideas? Comments? Share them on our discussion board.

And stay calm! Enjoy your child's sporting events and hope that she or he does too.