At the high school level, the importance of parents behaving as model spectators cannot be overstated. Support by parents for the rules of conduct defined in Conduct of Athletes is also critical. Of particular concern are parents who directly or indirectly participate in providing alcohol to athletes and/or knowingly permit athletes to drink alcohol. Such parents are potentially responsible for the adverse consequences to their own athlete as well as to the team.

Before the Game

• Tell your child you are proud of him or her regardless of how well he or she plays
• Make a commitment to honor the game no matter what others may do

During the Game

• Cheer good plays by both teams
• Mention good calls by the officials to others
• Encourage others to honor the game
• Remember to have fun! The game is for the kids
• Enjoy the day

After the Game

• Ask your child open-ended questions;
  • "What was the most enjoyable part of the game for you? Least enjoyable?"
  • "Did you feel you gave it your best effort?"
  • "How did you respond to any mistakes you made?"
  • "Did you bounce back?"
  • "What did you learn from the game?"
• Tell your child again that you are proud of him or her (especially if the game didn't go well).
• Thank officials for doing a difficult job.
• Thank the coaches for their efforts

What If

• The official makes a "bad" call against your team? Respect and honor the game - be silent!
• Another spectator on your team begins to berate the official? Ask them to respect and honor the game, that officials are human and make mistakes.
• Your child does not get to play/participate? Review the reasons why kids play sports in the "Parent Athletic Handbook."

Modified and adapted from Positive Coaching Alliance (www.positivecoach.org)