It is hard to be the good parent, especially when your child is an athlete. Try to keep the following in mind:

1) Coaches coach

2) Players play

3) Officials officiate

4) Parents cheer, hug, encourage, help transport and feed

• You may not always agree with the decisions that your child's coach makes but keep in mind that the coach envisions the team as a whole and you envision your child on the team.

• A good coach is trained to spot potential. They see their players not for where they are, but for what they can become

• There are some coaches out there that are not very good. Their job is to teach your child how to appreciate a good coach when they do have one, and respect the effort put forth by all coaches.

5) Never belittle your child's coach, teammates, or teammate family members in front of them. Everyone needs to vent from time to time, but do it behind closed doors and away from your child.

6) It is always OK to talk to your child's coach if you feel your child is at risk physically or emotionally. Talking to a coach about playing time or other players is not OK !!!

7) Always remember: Some people are put on this planet to show other how NOT to be!