The article discusses the negative impact of parental behavior on children's development in sports, emphasizing how shouting and aggression can harm young athletes both on and off the field. It recounts various personal experiences of a father who witnessed instances of parental confrontations during his son's football games. The increasing competitiveness in youth sports leads to heightened emotions, often resulting in physical confrontations that can embarrass or upset children. Ultimately, the piece sheds light on the need for civility and the importance of creating a positive environment for young players to thrive without the burden of parental conflict.
The first manager my son had, when he was seven, got the parents together and told us how shouting could affect our sons' development and behaviour, not only as players but as human beings.
My wife decided enough was enough and took our son from the field to go home... but one of the dads pushed her. Another guy punched me from behind and I completely lost it and punched back.
I have to admit, the red mist came down and I ran on to the pitch to remonstrate with the offending boy. Fortunately, my son wasn't hurt. But he was a bit embarrassed by his dad's behaviour.
It was the only time I've seen my son in tears on a football field. All I could say to the dad was: Well done, you've made a 10-year-old cry, yo.
Collection
[
|
...
]